Mexican White Pine, Ayacahuite Pine
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size 30-50' tall in the landscape, but grows much taller in the mountains of Mexico. Fast growth rate when young, slows with age.

Native Range

Native to Guatemala, southern Mexico. Introduced in 1840.

Flower and Fruit Details

Monoecious flowers. Fruits in curved, cylindrical cones, 6-14" long and 3-4" wide, pendulous, borne singly or in groups, and are extremely resinous.

Leaf and Bark Features

Evergreen: Beautiful, blue-green needles in groups of 5, thin and 4-7" long, arching, toothed, persisting 3-4 years. Thin, smooth, grayish bark when young, becoming darker gray-brown and plate-like with age.

Culture and Care

Best growth on sandy or loamy, moist, well-drained soils, with an acid to neutral soil pH. Avoid heavy, poorly-drained, clay soils. Prefers full sun. Somewhat drought tolerant. Zones 6-9. Susceptible to white pine blister rust.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Good wildlife value. 4-season interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter. The overall population of this species is decreasing, but it is not in the threatened category. This Mexican pine, with its large pendent cones, is uncommon in cultivation and is restricted to a few arboreta and private parks or gardens with rare trees.

Suggested Uses

A beautiful species, similar in appearance to the Eastern White Pine.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA