Shore (Lodgepole) Pine | Pinus contorta

A pine tree with cones by a rocky beach.
Lodgepole pine on the coast by Gerald D. Carr
The image features a close-up of a plant with two spiky, bright red flowers and green foliage in the background.
The image shows a close-up of a conifer cone with orange-yellow scales, surrounded by green pine needles against a clear blue sky.
A close-up of a vibrant yellow-orange flower spike with numerous cylindrical structures, likely from a plant or tree.
A pine tree with cones by a rocky beach.
The image features a close-up of a plant with two spiky, bright red flowers and green foliage in the background.
The image shows a close-up of a conifer cone with orange-yellow scales, surrounded by green pine needles against a clear blue sky.
A close-up of a vibrant yellow-orange flower spike with numerous cylindrical structures, likely from a plant or tree.

Description

The only two-needled pine species found in Oregon. Red to grayish brown bark. Two varieties commercially available: shore pine (P. contorta var. contorta) and lodgepole pine (P. contorta var. latifolia).  Shore pine is easily wind-sculpted and usually grows curved. Lodgepole pine usually grows straighter and taller and makes better wildlife habitat.

Plant Details

Habitat Coastal dunes and bluffs, rock gardens
Habitat Notes Does not naturally occur in the Willamette Valley. Growth habit depends on variety and habitat.
Mature Height Up to 150 ft depending on variety
Shade Preference Sun, part shade
Soil Tolerance Dry to wet well-drained soil, adaptable to many soil conditions
Special Uses  Wind breaks, wildlife habitat