Characteristics

• Pinus echinata reaches a mature height of 90 feet, but some trees can grow up to 100 feet or more. The tree's canopy spreads to a maximum width around 30 feet and its trunk is roughly 2 to 3 feet in diameter. The shortleaf pine's foliage grows as clusters of 3- to 5-inch-long blue-green needles, while its rough cone-shaped seeds are about 2 inches long. The bark of young trees is dark black, but it slowly fades to a red-brown color as trees age.
  
  

Climate and Geography

• Pinus echinata is quite prolific compared to other pine trees --- it grows in 23 states in the U.S. This species thrives in the Southeast and is native to the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama and Virginia, among other states. It tolerates a variety of soil and moisture conditions, making it one of the most hardy pine trees in North America. The fast-growing shortleaf pine thrives with maximum sun exposure; it does not perform well in heavily shaded areas.
  
  

Uses

• The Pinus echinata species is well-known as a quality lumber tree. It has significant commercial application in the United States, with its wood used as structural lumber and to make plywood. It also has some aesthetic value and can be planted as an ornamental tree. However, its immense stature and deep tap root make it difficult to transplant, which limits its suitability for domestic landscaping. The seeds of the shortleaf pine are also a primary source of food for wild animals and birds in its native region.
  
  

Infestation

• Pinus echinata is vulnerable to several types of insect infestation. The Southern pine beetle (Dendroctonus frontalis) is one of its more notable pests; a serious infestation can kill a healthy tree within one to two years. The larva of the Nantucket pine tip moth (Rhyacionia frustrana) and the black turpentine beetle (Dendroctonus terebrans) are also significant parasites of shortleaf pine. Other common insect species, like borers and bark beetles, can also harm the tree or render its wood unsuitable for harvesting.
  
  

Littleleaf Disease

• Littleleaf disease is commonly cited as the most devastating disease that threatens the American population of shortleaf pine trees. The onset of this condition is associated with significant root damage resulting from an infection of the Phytophthora cinnamomi fungus. Littleleaf disease is prevalent in damp areas with poorly drained soil. Since this disease is the result of several adverse environmental conditions, it is difficult to treat the condition once it has begun. The best way to prevent it is to select a growing site with good water drainage and high soil fertility.