Bristlecone Pine, Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine, Hickory Pine
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 8-20' tall with an irregular width, possibly to 40' tall but only after many years. National champion is over 60' tall in Colorado. Growth habit is uniquely interesting: dwarf and somewhat shrub-like. Extremely slow growth rate, a 16-year-old plant may be only 4' tall. Long lived, 200-250 years. This species is one of the oldest living plants on earth, with some specimens estimated to be 4,000 to 5,000 years of age, or even older.

Native Range

U.S. Native — Native to Southwestern United States along Nevada-California border, east through the highlands of Nevada, Utah, Colorado, North Arizona and northern New Mexico. Forms pure stands at higher elevations of 7,500-10,000'. Introduced 1861.

Flower and Fruit Details

Monoecious flowers. Fruits in sessile, cylindrical-ovoid cones, brown 2-4" long, 1.5" broad, with a bristle-like point at the edge of each cone scale. Seeds to 0.25" long, and they will germinate easily with no treatment.

Leaf and Bark Features

Evergreen: Needles grouped in 5s and are 1-1.75" long, dark bluish-green or bluish white, with raised white dots (resinous exudations), evergreen. Bark is gray-green and smooth when young, with age it becomes rust colored and fissured.

Culture and Care

Prefers acidic soils but tolerates alkaline conditions, pH 5.5-8.5. Will succeed in poor, dry, rocky soils. Dislikes shade and air pollution. Drought, heat, and wind tolerant. Zones 4-7. Not for shaded or smoky areas. Avoid areas subject to flooding. Disease and insect susceptibility is similar to other pines.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Picturesque growth habit, unique longevity potential, tolerates drought and poor soils. Good for small spaces. Good wildlife value. 4-season interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter.

Suggested Uses

Landscape uses include bonsai, rock gardens, accent plant, foundation plant, or as a patio plant.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA