Pinus lambertiana

Common Names:

Sugar Pine, Giant Pine, Black Pine

Phonetic Spelling:

PIE-nus lam-ber-tee-AY-nuh

Description:

Pinus lambertiana is an evergreen coniferous tree that can grow up to 60 to 75 meters (200 to 250 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest pine species. It has a straight trunk, which can reach a diameter of 1.5 to 2 meters (5 to 6.5 feet). The crown is conical when young, becoming more cylindrical with age. The leaves are needle-like, in bundles of five, and 5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches) long. They are dark green with a slight bluish tint and have a slightly serrated edge. Fruits: The fruits are the longest of any pine species, measuring 25 to 50 centimeters (10 to 20 inches) long. The cones are cylindrical, with large, hard, and sharp scales. They take two years to mature and release seeds that are winged and dispersed by the wind.

Interesting fact: The tree produces both male and female cones. Male cones are small and clustered at the base of new shoots. Female cones are large and elongated.

Distribution/Location:

Native to the mountains of the western United States and Mexico, primarily found in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range, extending into southern Oregon and northern Baja California.

Thrives in montane and subalpine environments, often found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,600 meters (4,000 to 12,000 feet). It prefers well-drained soils and is often found in mixed coniferous forests.

Environmental Concerns:

Faces threats from climate change, habitat loss, and diseases such as white pine blister rust. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation, monitoring and managing disease outbreaks, and reforestation projects. Research is ongoing to develop rust-resistant strains to ensure the survival of the species.

Additional Notes:

Sugar Pine plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. Its seeds are an important food source for birds and small mammals. The wood of Pinus lambertiana is valued for its high quality and is used for construction, furniture, and specialty items. Historically, the tree’s resin was used as a sweetener by Native American tribes.