Massive native pine of Pacific Coast mountains. Among the largest pine species in the world.

Native status: Native to Pacific Coast mountains

§ Quick facts

SizeHeight 35–60 m; record 75 m
Lifespan300–500 years
OrderPinales
FamilyPinaceae

§ Encyclopedia

Pinus lambertiana is the tallest and most massive pine tree and has among the longest cones of any conifer. It is native to coastal and inland mountain areas along the Pacific coast of North America, as far north as Oregon and as far south as Baja California in Mexico.

Source: Wikipedia — Pinus lambertiana Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive pine with bundles of 5 long needles; massive elongated cones; reddish bark.

Similar species. Other 5-needle pines. Western White Pine.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. N/A — photosynthesis

Behavior. Among the largest pine species in the world. Produces the largest cones of any pine (up to 60 cm).

§ Range

Pacific Coast mountains

§ Habitat

Mixed conifer forests

§ Threats

Forest loss, white pine blister rust.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the sugar pine is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Pacific Coast forest conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USDA Forest Service Silvics Manual