Pinus glabra Walter

Nomenclature

Pinus glabra Walter, also called spruce pine, is a straight-growing, medium-sized pine species.

Mature Height

Mature individuals reach heights between 20 and 40 metres (66 to 131 ft).

Leaf Arrangement

Its leaves are needle-like, growing in bundles of two.

Needle Characteristics

Each needle measures 5 to 8 centimetres (2.0 to 3.1 in) long, is 1 millimetre (0.039 in) thick, and has a glossy dark green appearance.

Cone Size

This species produces small, slender cones that are 4 to 6 centimetres (1.6 to 2.4 in) long.

Cone Scale Features

The cone scales have weak prickles that are shed soon after the cones mature.

Ecological Distinction

In terms of ecology, Pinus glabra differs noticeably from most other pines.

Habitat

It does not grow in largely pure pine forests; instead, it is typically found as scattered individual trees in moist woodland habitats within mixed hardwood forests.

Shade Tolerance

To compete successfully in these shaded habitats, it has evolved higher shade tolerance than most other pine species.