Bristlecone Pine

Bristlecone pine is a bushy, irregularly-shaped native evergreen tree. It has long, dark green needles that cover much of the branches. It produces interesting white resin specks on the needles. The needles and branches are quite dense, and its overall shape varies from conical to very irregular.

Good soil drainage is essential, making bristlecone pine a good choice for hot, dry exposed sites. It is not a good choice for planting in a regularly-watered lawn.

A long-lived tree, some bristlecone pines in nature are around 4,000 years old.

Bristlecone Pine

Bristlecone pine is a bushy, irregularly-shaped native evergreen tree. It has long, dark green needles that cover much of the branches. It produces interesting white resin specks on the needles. The needles and branches are quite dense, and its overall shape varies from conical to very irregular.

Good soil drainage is essential, making bristlecone pine a good choice for hot, dry exposed sites. It is not a good choice for planting in a regularly-watered lawn.

A long-lived tree, some bristlecone pines in nature are around 4,000 years old.

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Pinus aristata

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Pronunciation

PY-nus a-ris-TAH-tuh

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Mature Height

20 to 30 ft.

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Mature Spread

15 to 20 ft.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

NA

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Bloom time

NA

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Colorado Native

Yes

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Natural Habitat

Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 2-7

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 11,000 ft.

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