8 Perfect Pines for the Home Landscape

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.