LOBLOLLY PINE
The loblolly pine, native to North America, is known for its impressive growth, typically reaching heights of 50 to 80 feet with a spread of about 35 feet. However, it can grow even taller, surpassing 150 feet. This species grows rapidly and has a pyramidal shape when young, making it an excellent choice for screening purposes. As the tree matures, it sheds its lower limbs and transforms into a tall and elegant specimen suitable as a windbreak or for providing dappled shade. Its evergreen needles measure six to nine inches in length and change from light green to brown during winter months. The tree produces cones that are often paired; these cones range from three to six inches long, have red-brown coloring with sharp spines, and remain on the tree for several years before maturing in the fall. Additionally, the loblolly pine’s thick bark offers significant resistance to fire in natural settings.
Height: 50 to 80 feet
Spread: 30 to 35 feet
Crown uniformity: irregular
Crown shape: oval
Crown density: open
Growth rate: fast
Texture: fine
Light Requirement: full sun
Soil Tolerances: clay; sand; loam; acidic; occasionally wet to well-drained
Drought Tolerance: moderate
Aerosol Salt Tolerance: moderate
Pines are increasingly favored in landscapes, parks, and commercial areas due to their versatility. They offer light shade that supports the growth of grass and other plants beneath their canopy. While some individuals may express concerns about the fallen needles, it’s important to note that this is a natural occurrence similar to rain. The Loblolly pine thrives best in full sun with well-drained, acidic soil and becomes drought-tolerant once established. The ‘Nana’ cultivar is particularly noteworthy for its compact size, reaching only 8 to 16 feet in height, making it an excellent choice for use as a specimen or screen in small-scale landscapes. Its dense, rounded form could gain popularity as more people become aware of its benefits. Propagation is typically done by seed; however, transplanting young trees taller than four feet can be quite challenging.