Pennsylvania is known for many different features: the Liberty Bell, Amish Country, and chocolate. But the latter part of the state’s name literally translates to “wooded place” in Latin. In short, there are many varieties of Pine Trees in Pennsylvania.
It would take us ages to come up with all the trees in this large state, but we can start with a list of pine trees that grow in PA. These stunning evergreens come in several varieties – many of which resemble the trees you decorate at Christmastime.
Pine Trees of Pennsylvania
Here are some of the most common Pine Trees of Pennsylvania. Some can grow over 200 feet, and others can live as long as 1,000 years.
Eastern White Pine
The Pinus Strobus L., better known as the Eastern White Pine, is a member of the white pine group. While most of these trees will remain under 180 feet tall, some have reached impressive heights as tall as 230 feet.
This hardy plant boasts gorgeous, fluffy-looking branches full of large clusters of bright green needles. The branches alone can resemble bushes and are popular as Christmas decorations.
Eastern Whites are commonly used for construction projects. The pine wood is sturdy and versatile, popularly used to build ships, barns, and furniture.
Sierra Lodgepole Pine
The Sierra Lodgepole Pine is a straight-trunked pine tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. This impressive pine can live more than 600 years in the right conditions, sporting thin, scaly bark and 2-inch prickly pine cones.
The lodgepole pine has beautiful 2-inch needles. They grow in bundles of two and offer a lovely lemon fragrance.
One of the most interesting facts about the lodgepole is that it matures and reproduces quickly. It’s known to repopulate new areas speedily, with its young trees dropping their cones at just four years old.
Virginia Pine
It may seem odd to list a pine tree named after another state on a list of PA pine trees, but the Virginia Pine (Pinus Virginiana) is one of the most common types in the Keystone State.
Although Virginia Pines can grow up to 60 feet tall, most don’t reach that height. In fact, this species is a popular option on Christmas tree farms due to its stunning appearance at a young age. You probably recognize it better by one of its common names: Spruce Pine.
It is a prevalent holiday decoration, but the Virginia Pine is also a tool used in construction for building and making wood pulp.
Pitlolly Pine
The Pitlolly Pine is a hybrid pine tree. It’s a cross between a Pitch Pine and a Loblolly Pine, the combination of which leads to a sturdy, hardy tree that can survive anywhere.
Pitlolly Pines are highly adaptable, large trees that grow up to 60 feet tall. Their branches can extend to 40 feet wide, making them massive overall. It grows long, yellow-green needles in bundles of three and produces long pine cones for reproduction.
Red Pine
The Red Pine, also called the Norway Pine, is a medium-sized pine tree common across North America. It’s known for growing alongside Virginia Pine, so it is no surprise that we find this one in Pennsylvania too.
The Red Pine grows dark yellow-green needles and symmetrical cones. Its bark is thick and plated with a brown base. It’s a very hardy tree that can live an impressive 500 years, growing up to 115 feet tall.
This evergreen is home to frequent visitors and residents, including osprey, bald eagles, and great blue heron.
Shortleaf Pine
Pinus echinata, or the Shortleaf Pine, is a common tree in Missouri. But it is also widespread throughout Pennsylvania. The large tree sports a tall, clear trunk and thick, reddish-brown bark.
The Shortleaf Pine has long, slender needles with sharp points. They wear a dark, bluish-green color, making this pine stand out among the yellow-green that many PA pines boast.
This pine tree is known to be one of the most adaptable. It grows well practically anywhere and lives in 21 states. It can grow to 120 feet, but most stay around 50 or 60.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for some sprawling, green forests, Pennsylvania is a great place to be. This state is home to some of the tallest, greenest pine trees you’ll ever see. Plus, the smell is unbelievable. You can also grow pine trees in your yard.