About
Pinus muricata, the Bishop pine, is a medium-sized, evergreen tree developing a narrow, flat-topped crown with age. Stiff, green to dark grey-green needles to 12 cm long are borne in pairs and prickly, ovoid cones persist on the branches for many years. An ornamental and architectural pine 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.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Trees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, large borders, parkland settings.
Native toUSA (California)
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil. Suitable for exposed sites
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to adelgids, conifer aphid, sawfly larvae, and pine shoot moth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases