Facts of the White Pine Tree

The evergreen white pine tree (Pinus strobus) grows to a height of 50 to 80 feet, with a width of up to 50 feet. A long-lived tree, it normally attains a life span of 200 years and may reach 450 years, according to the U.S. Forest Service's website.

History

The white pine tree was logged heavily during the 1800s and was slow to recover. In many areas, hardwood species took over the old growth sites. Today the white pine is a popular landscape tree due to its pleasing appearance and rapid growth.

Growth Considerations

The white pine tree grows best in full sunlight. During the tree's first 10 years of life, growth is slow, but between 10 to 20 years of age the tree's growth rate speeds up. During these years, the white pine usually grows approximately 16 inches per year, according to the U.S. Forest Service's website. The tree begins to produce seeds between three to five years old.

Warning

Urban pollution adversely effects the white pine tree. It does not do well in compacted or alkaline soil conditions. The tree's foliage can begin to yellow if it is planted in an alkaline soil site, according to the Ohio State University's website. The tree is also not salt-tolerant. Deer can easily damage or destroy seedlings from foraging activities.