About
Pinus durangensis, the Durango pine, is a pine from Mexico producing the characteristic whorled branches bearing needle-like foliage and decorative cones of the genus. A rewarding and architectural conifer for a well-drained, sunny garden.
About the genus
Pinus, the pines, are evergreen coniferous trees or shrubs � some with attractive bark � developing an irregular crown with age and bearing long, needle-like leaves in bundles of 2, 3 or 5. Conspicuous cones may fall or persist on the tree for years. Among the most widely grown of all ornamental conifers.
Plant details
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, shelterbelts, large gardens. Dwarf cultivars suit rock gardens and containers.
Care notes
CultivationWell-drained, preferably acidic soil in full sun. Most pines are very drought-tolerant once established.
PruningNo regular pruning needed. Remove dead branches. Candle-prune in spring for density on dwarf types.
PropagationSow seed in spring (stratify first). Grafting for cultivars.
Pest resistancePine processionary moth, adelgids, pine shoot beetle. Generally robust.
Disease resistanceDothistroma needle blight, Diplodia tip blight. Good air circulation helps.