Iconic western pine. Among the most fire-tolerant pines.

Also called: Ponderosa Pine, Western Yellow Pine

Native status: Native to western North America

§ Quick facts

SizeHeight 20–45 m
Lifespan300–600 years
OrderPinales
FamilyPinaceae

§ Encyclopedia

Pinus ponderosa, commonly known as the ponderosa pine or western yellow pine, is a very large pine tree species of variable habitat native to mountainous regions of western North America. It is the most widely distributed pine species in North America.

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

§ Identification

Field marks. Tall pine with bundles of 3 long needles; reddish-orange platy bark; cones 8–15 cm.

Similar species. Jeffrey Pine (similar but larger cones). Lodgepole Pine (smaller, 2 needles).

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. N/A — photosynthesis

Behavior. Western US pine of high-elevation forests. Distinct vanilla-butterscotch scent from bark. Critical wildlife tree.

§ Range

Western US

§ Habitat

Western coniferous forests

§ Threats

Forest loss, drought.

§ Conservation status

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

§ What helps

Support western forest conservation.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USDA Forest Service Silvics Manual