The White Pine
As an owner of a nursery that grows a variety of seedlings, transplants and Christmas trees, one of the questions I field the most is, "What is your favorite tree?"
November 14, 2007
The White Pine by John Hensler, President
My selection, without a doubt, is the Pinus strobus, or more commonly known as the White Pine. When planted and cultured as a Christmas tree it really becomes spectacular The White Pine has long, soft needles with a unique color ranging from blue-green to silver-green. Unique among pines, the needles are grouped together in bundles of 5, unlike other pines, which are bundled only two at a time.
The needles of a White Pine give a supple appearance to this conifer. They feel soft on the forest floor as the older needles accumulate under foot. The sticky resin (sap) of this tree has its own distinctive, but mild fragrance. It is thought to result in fewer allergic reactions than other aromatic species, making it an ideal tree for allergy sufferers.
The White Pine develops into a full, dense tree. Its long needles help create this fullness which displays well in the home. The tree is lighter than most comparable conifers and with its straight stem, is easy to handle and set in a tree stand. This tree needs few ornaments to decorate it for holiday celebrations.
Here are a few more tidbits about this native North American White Pine:
- Grows easily throughout the Midwest, its native range.
- A 6-foot tree requires 6-8 years to grow.
- Can easily reach heights of 75 feet.
- It is very much at home in the forest where it is capable of producing high quality usable lumber.
- Planted as a windbreak, it grows unencumbered by insects.
- The wind makes a unique sound as it races through its branches.