Passionate About Pines
Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-1602 -- More Projects »
Master gardener Paul James argues that the best conifers for the landscape are the pines. They are among the easiest of all conifers to grow and thrive throughout much of the country. Pines offer a variety of colors and growth habits and, depending on the species, sport two, three or five needles per fascicle, or cluster of needles. Here are a few of Paul's favorites:
Among the more popular upright pines is the Eastern white pine, or Pinus strobus (figure A). It's a five-needled species that is hardy to USDA Zone 3 and can reach heights of up to 150 feet.
Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) (figure B) is a three-needled evergreen that grows up to 90 feet tall. Hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 9.
Limber pine (Pinus flexilis) (figure C) has five needles and grows slowly to 50 feet tall. Hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 7.
The Bosnian pine (Pinus leucodermis) (figure D) is an upright grower, but it grows slowly, which makes it ideal for small yards. It sports two needles per fascicle. Hardy to USDA Zone 6, maybe USDA Zone 5 with protection.
  Mugo pine ( Pinus mugo) ( figure E) is a very durable, slow-growing evergreen shrub. It has two needles per fascicle. Hardy in USDA Zones (2)3 to 7. |  Scotch pine ( Pinus sylvestris) ( figure F) is another cold-hardy selection that grows in USDA Zones (2)3 to 7. It has two needles per fascicle. |
 Pines offer a variety of weeping forms, such as Pinus strobus 'Pendula' ... |  ... or the slow-growing, weeping Pinus banksiana 'Uncle Fogy'. |
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