Species eastern white pine
Clusters of soft, blue-green needles and rough gray bark

eastern white pine

Pinus strobus 'Fastigiata'

Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus 'Fastigiata') is a stately evergreen tree native to North America. Its columnar form and deep green needles make it perfect for use as a privacy screen or wind block. This fast-growing tree is able to reach heights up to 50 feet, while retaining its distinctive columnar form over time. Its bright yellow cones and long, soft needles give it a graceful, feathery appearance. Eastern white pine is an easy-care tree that tolerates a variety of soil conditions and prefers full sun and moderate moisture. Pruning of lower branches is necessary to bring out the trees full potential, but if left alone, it will make a stunning addition to any landscape. Eastern white pine is a truly remarkable tree.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Rocky

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Eastern white pines should be watered on a regular basis, especially during the warmer months when the soil becomes dry. It is important to never allow the soil to completely dry out, so regular light watering is best. In general, water the area around the tree twice a week, allowing the water to thoroughly saturate the soil around the roots. During particularly hot spells, increase the frequency of watering to every other day. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot. Additionally, deep-watering the tree once a month can help keep the soil hydrated.

sunlight

Eastern white pine grows best in full sunlight. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When grown in a shaded area, the eastern white pine may struggle to reach its full potential size and may be more susceptible to pests and diseases. It also does not tolerate extreme heat, so if you live in a warm climate it's best not to plant eastern white pine in direct sun during the midday peak. For best growth and health, it is best to plant eastern white pine in a location that receives the most sunlight all day, such as a bright, southern-facing position.

pruning

Eastern white pines should be pruned annually. Pruning should occur during the early spring months after the winter cold has passed and before new growth begins. Pruning should be done to maintain the shape of the tree and to remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be completed before the end of May to avoid any new growth from being accidentally removed. During pruning, the shape of the tree should be kept as close to the natural shape as possible and thinning should be done to keep the canopy open. Care should be taken to avoid cutting off too much at 1 time as this will shock the tree. Minor correction pruning can take place throughout the growing season as needed.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Eastern white pine typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map