Pinus flexilis (limber pine) — Bushy

Overview

Pinus flexilis is a bushy conifers in the genus Pinus, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pinus flexilis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens, coastal and cottage and informal garden.

About

Pinus flexilis, the limber pine, is a species of pine tree in the family Pinaceae that occurs in the mountains of the Western United States, Mexico, and Canada. It is also called Rocky Mountain white pine. A limber pine in Eagle Cap Wilderness, Oregon, has been documented as over 2,000 years old, and another one was confirmed at 1,140 years old. Another candidate for the oldest limber pine was identified in 2006 near the Alta Ski Area in Utah; called "Twister", the tree was confirmed to be at least 1,700 years old and thought to be even older. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is fully hardy throughout the UK (RHS H7). It works well for architectural, city and courtyard gardens, coastal and cottage and informal garden. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Well-drained, preferably acidic soil in full sun. Most pines are very drought-tolerant once established.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pinus flexilis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pinus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Pinus flexilis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Conifers
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pinus flexilis

Propagation: Propagate by grafting
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to adelgids, aphids, pine sawfly and pine shoot moth
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Pinus flexilis?

Pinus flexilis prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Pinus flexilis need?

Pinus flexilis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.