Pinus longaeva (Great Basin bristlecone pine) — Bushy

Overview

Pinus longaeva is a bushy conifers in the genus Pinus, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pinus longaeva 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 longaeva (commonly referred to as the Great Basin bristlecone pine, intermountain bristlecone pine, or western bristlecone pine) is a long-living species of bristlecone pine tree found in the higher mountains of California, Nevada, and Utah. In 1987, the bristlecone pine was designated one of Nevada's state trees. Methuselah is a Great Basin bristlecone pine that is 4,857 years old and has been credited as the oldest known living non-clonal organism on Earth. It is native to North America, California, Nevada and Utah. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is fully hardy throughout the UK (RHS H7). Suggested uses include 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 longaeva

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 longaeva 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 longaeva

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 longaeva?

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

What soil does Pinus longaeva need?

Pinus longaeva 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.