This coniferous tree has a thin greyish scaly trunk and horizontal branches with upturned tips that form a broad conical crown. It has yellowish to dark green twisted needle-like leaves and produces yellow-brown female cones.

Hardiness zones 5 to 9

Pinus contortais naturally found throughout western North America growing from sea level (var. contorta) to an altitude of 3600m (11000ft) (var.latifolia).

It tolerates most well drained sandy-gravelly soils, except those of limestone origin and prefers a open sunny position and is frost and moderately drought tolerant.

The Lodgepole Pine is grown for its conical habit and is planted in large gardens or parks as a specimen tree. It is suitable for costal and mountainous regions establishing in 3 to 4 years. It is also planted in commercial sites or used in forestry for its timber. ID 2732

Pinus (PY-nus) contorta(kon-TOR-ta)

Pinaceae(py-NAY-see-ee)
Larches, spruces, pines, firs, hemlocks and cedars