7 Common Pine Trees In Maine (Photos & Identification)
Pine trees thrive in abundance in Maine’s picturesque wilderness, a land of towering mountains and pristine lakes.
These majestic evergreens not only add a touch of natural grandeur to the landscape, but they also play an important role in the state’s ecosystem. Each pine tree, from the iconic Eastern white pine to the resilient red pine, has its distinct beauty and significance.
In this article, we will look at seven of these amazing pine trees in Maine, diving into their unique characteristics, common uses, and the rich history they have woven into the fabric of Maine.
1. Eastern White Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus strobus L.
- Common Name(s): Eastern White Pine
- Mature Height: 50-80 feet (15-24 meters)
- Native Region: North America
- Flowers: No Flowers.
- Fruit: Cylindrical cones with brown scales.
- Uses: Lumber, construction, furniture, interior trim, cabinetry, utility poles, and Christmas trees.
The Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus L.) is a dominant tree in Maine landscapes and has earned the state nickname “Pine Tree State.” This distinction is due to the species’ abundance and value in the region. The white pine has historical and economic significance in Maine dating back to the 1600s.
The Eastern White Pine grows quickly, reaching 50-80 feet (15-24 meters) in height and gaining at least a foot in height per year. Except when damaged by the white pine weevil, young trees in open regions have a symmetrical and conical structure. Deformities caused by this insect include numerous stems and a rounder profile. Mature white pines have a narrow crown and long trunks that are often free of branches for a large percentage of their length in the forest.
The Eastern White Pine is native to North America, including Maine. It may grow in a variety of environments, including damp places, uplands, and sandy soils. It does, however, do best in fertile, well-drained soils. It can even grow in virgin or almost virgin forests or groves on sandy soils. The white pine is widely planted throughout the state as a tribute to its tenacity.
The Eastern White Pine does not have beautiful blooms, but it does have cylindrical cones with brown scales. These cones are a distinguishing feature of the tree, enabling seed distribution. For optimal growth of the white pine in Maine landscapes, it is critical to have good drainage and nutritious soil.
Eastern White Pine has a wide range of applications and contributes greatly to Maine’s economy. Its high-quality lumber is used in buildings, furniture, interior trim, cabinetry, utility poles, and even Christmas trees. Since the early 17th century, the availability and excellent characteristics of white pine timber have played a critical role in the development of Maine, making it a vital part of the state’s history and scenery.
2. Jack Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus banksiana Lamb.
- Common Name(s): Jack Pine, Gray Pine
- Mature Height: 50-60 feet (15-18 meters)
- Native Region: North America
- Flowers: No flowers
- Fruit: Cones that are 1½ – 2 inches long and without a stalk, curved and often closed for several years.
- Uses: Mostly used for pulp.
Jack Pine, technically known as Pinus banksiana Lamb., but more generally known as Jack Pine or Gray Pine, is a North American natural tree. It is commonly found in sandy, rocky, and shallow acid soils. Natural habitats for Jack Pine in Maine include Alamoosook Lake in Orland, Schoodic Point in Winter Harbor, Great Wass Island in Beals, Matagamon Lake, Cliff Lake, Lobster Lake, and the areas south and west of Jackman.
This tree has long and flexible spreading branches that produce an open head with a symmetrical appearance. Jack Pine matures to a height of 50-60 feet (15-18 meters) with a diameter of 8-10 inches. The tree’s bark is thin, dark brown, and has irregular rounded ridges with a little red tinge.
Jack Pine leaves are clustered in pairs and range in length from 34 to 112 inches. They are yellow-green at first then grow to a dark green tint. The leaves are thick and twisted at the base, making them appear flat. Jack Pine cones, which often appear after only a few years of growth, need two years to fully mature. They are slender and curved, measuring 112 – 2 inches in length, and do not have a stalk. The cones’ scales have small prickles that are occasionally shed. Unless exposed to excessive heat, the cones normally remain closed for several years and can often be found on the tree for 12-15 years before collapsing.
Jack Pine’s wood is moderately durable, hefty, and has a close grain. However, its principal application is in the pulp and paper industries.
Because of its propensity to thrive in sandy and rocky soils, Jack Pine can be a valuable addition to Maine landscapes. Its spreading branches and open head create an appealing look, and its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of landscape designs. Jack Pine is well-suited to the climate because it is endemic to the state and can resist hard winters and windy conditions. It is a hardy tree that can withstand drought, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
In addition to its ornamental appeal, Jack Pine serves an important role in wildlife conservation. The bushy branches provide ideal nesting habitat for a variety of bird species. Animals such as squirrels and other tiny mammals rely on the cones for food.
3. Red Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus resinosa Ait.
- Common Name(s): Red Pine, Norway Pine
- Mature Height: 60-80 feet (18-24 meters)
- Native Region: North America
- Flowers: No Flowers
- Fruit: Cones, about 2 inches long, with a hollow base
- Uses: Lumber, poles, piles, building construction, pulp
The Red Pine, commonly known as the Norway Pine, is a common tree across Maine, however, it is usually confined and scattered amid other species’ woods. It grows well in rocky ridges and light, sandy soils. The Red Pine can be found in the lovely “Cathedral Pines” in Eustis.
The Red Pine has branches that extend to the ground in its youth, giving it a conical shape. The branches become more horizontal as the tree matures, and the tree takes on a rounded and attractive aspect. A mature Red Pine can grow to be 60 to 80 feet tall, with a circumference of 2 to 3 feet. The trunk is straight and progressively tapers.
Shallow fractures separate the bark of the Red Pine into broad, flat ridges. The leaves are organized in clusters of two, are dark green, velvety, and flexible, and range in length from 4 to 6 inches. The leaves split cleanly at a sharp angle when doubled between the fingers.
While the Red Pine does not have beautiful flowers, it does produce cones that look like eggs. These cones are around 2 inches long and are carried on short stalks. Fallen cones have hollow bases. They mature in the second season’s fall and frequently persist on the branches until the following summer. Cones can be collected for seeds beginning in September and continuing through the fall and winter as the cones gradually discharge their seeds.
Red pine wood is slightly heavier and tougher than white pine wood. It is well-known for being fine-grained, hard, and somewhat robust. This makes it appropriate for a wide range of applications, including lumber, poles, piles, building construction, and pulp.
Because the wood is easily treated with preservatives, it can be used as a locally manufactured alternative to southern yellow pine. Shorter stems from Red Pine stands can also be utilized in the increasing pole industry. Older Red Pine forests produce huge and valuable poles.
The moniker “red pine” is appropriate for this tree because of its reddish bark and pale crimson heartwood. The name “Norway pine” was given to it after it was discovered near Norway, Maine. It is crucial to highlight that the name “Norway pine” implies a foreign origin, which is not correct, and hence its use is discouraged.
4. Pitch Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus rigida Mill.
- Common Name: Pitch Pine
- Mature Height: 30-40 feet (9-12 meters)
- Native Region: Eastern North America
- Flowers: No Flowers
- Fruit: Cones require 2 years to mature, are 1½ – 3½ inches long, often produced in clusters. Each cone scale has a sharp, rigid curved prickle on the tip.
- Uses: Construction lumber, pulp, wreath decorations, tar, and turpentine production.
Pitch pine, scientifically known as Pinus rigida Mill., is a prevalent tree in Maine landscapes, particularly in the state’s southern region, sand plains around Brunswick and Oxford, and Mt. Desert Island. It is not found in the counties of Piscataquis, Aroostook, Somerset, or Washington. This pine tree grows on sandy barrens or plains, as well as on uphill stony soil.
Pitch pine is easily identified by its distinctive qualities. Its branches are horizontal, rigid, and twisted, forming an open crown. The tree grows to a diameter of 1-2 feet and a height of 30-40 feet. The trunk tapers quickly and is normally straight. Pitch pine, interestingly, may produce “sprout” growth even when it looks to be dead in conditions such as fire. Even on young stems and branches, the bark is rough, and on older trees, it is separated into continuous broad flat ridges with a deep gray or reddish-brown tint.
Pitch pine leaves are grouped in clusters of three and measure around 3-5 inches long. They are rigid and dark yellow-green, standing at right angles to the branches. While there are no apparent flowers on this tree, it does produce cones. The cones mature in two years, are 112 – 312 inches long, and are frequently grown in clusters.
On the tip of each cone scale is a sharp, hard-curved prickle. The cones open gradually over the winter and release seeds over several years. It’s worth noting that pitch pine cones can stay on the tree for 10-12 years, making them ideal for wreath decorations.
Pitch pine wood is medium in weight, robust, hard, and stiff. It is extensively utilized in the production of building lumber and pulp. Significant amounts of tar and turpentine were previously collected from this tree. It is critical to consider pitch pines’ native range and habitat when caring for them in Maine landscapes.
Because these trees grow in sandy barrens or plains, they require well-drained soil. They can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from direct sunlight to moderate shade. They will thrive with regular watering during dry months and occasional trimming to maintain their distinctive open crown shape.
Pitch pines are a great addition to Maine landscapes due to their distinct qualities and utility in a variety of businesses.
5. Scots Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus sylvestris L.
- Common Name(s): Scots Pine, Scotch Pine
- Mature Height: 50-80 feet (15-24 meters)
- Native Region: Northern Europe
- Flowers: No Flowers
- Fruit: Cones, 1½ – 2 inches long and numerous
- Uses: Some strains are planted as Christmas trees.
Scots Pine, sometimes known as Scotch Pine, is a tall wood tree found throughout northern Europe. It thrives in dense stands and can grow in poor soils, making it adaptable to a wide range of environments.
While this species has several strains, some of them have poor growth patterns, making them unsuitable for lumber production. Furthermore, Scots Pine is vulnerable to snow, porcupine, and bird injuries, restricting its use for commercial forestry. However, due to their appealing traits, certain strains of Scots Pine are specifically planted as Christmas trees.
Scots Pine’s physical characteristics include dull blue-green leaves. The needles are small, rigid, and twisted, measuring 112 – 3 inches long and growing in two-facicle fascicles. Numerous cones ranging 112 – 2 inches in length can be seen on even young trees. The bark in the crown region of medium to big trees is very distinctive, with a prominent orange-brown hue.
Scots Pine is native to northern Europe, although it has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world. This tree may survive in a variety of settings in Maine, including poor-quality soil landscapes. It is well-suited to the environment of Maine and can withstand freezing temperatures, making it an excellent choice for local gardens and landscapes.
It is critical to offer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight while caring for Scots Pine in Maine landscapes. Watering the tree regularly, especially during dry months, can help it build strong roots. Proper pruning and thinning can also help to promote healthy growth.
Although Scots Pine can weather Maine’s hard winters, protecting the tree from significant snow accumulation and probable animal damage can help maintain its health and attractiveness.
Scots Pine can provide shelter and windbreaks in exposed regions, in addition to its decorative benefits as a Christmas tree. Because of its straight trunk and dense foliage, it is an excellent choice for creating privacy barriers or screening. Furthermore, the wood from this tree has a variety of applications, including construction, furniture, and paper-making.
6. Austrian Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus nigra Arnold
- Common Name(s): Austrian Pine, European Black Pine
- Mature Height: 40-80 feet (12-24 meters)
- Native Region: Europe
- Flowers: No flowers.
- Fruit: Cones 2-3½ inches long, armed with sharp prickles.
- Uses: Used as a decorative tree, can grow on poor soils and tolerate salt spray.
Austrian Pine, scientifically known as Pinus nigra Arnold, is also known as European Black Pine. This tree, which was originally native to Europe, has been widely planted as a decorative tree due to its quick growth and resilience to a variety of soil conditions. It may also thrive in poor soils and limestone soils, as well as in polluted metropolitan environments.
The Austrian Pine is distinguished by its dense and dark green leaves, which seem almost black in hue. The leaves are long and sharp-pointed, grouped in two-needle bundles. Unlike other pine species, the Austrian Pine’s leaves do not break neatly when bent between the fingers.
In terms of look, the Austrian Pine is similar to the native Red Pine. There are, however, a few crucial distinct qualities. The Austrian Pine’s bark is darker brown to black, and the buds are covered in pitch. The Austrian Pine cones are about 2 to 312 inches long and covered with stinging prickles.
This tree is extremely resistant to salt spray, making it ideal for coastal areas. It may grow near the sea and in other salt-exposed regions without causing severe damage. Furthermore, the Austrian Pine’s adaptation to a variety of soil conditions, as well as its resistance to pollution, makes it an excellent choice for urban environments.
Once established, the Austrian Pine is generally low-maintenance in terms of care. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Watering is required regularly during the first few years of growth, but it gets more drought-tolerant as it matures. Pruning can be used to keep the tree in form and to remove any dead or broken limbs.
Because of its remarkable beauty and adaptability, the Austrian Pine is an outstanding decorative tree in Maine landscapes. It can be utilized as a windbreak, privacy screen, or just as a garden focus point. Its resilience to salt spray also makes it appropriate for coastal areas like Maine.
7. Mugo Pine
- Scientific Name: Pinus mugo Turra
- Common Name(s): Mugo Pine
- Mature Height: 3-5 feet (1-1.5 meters)
- Native Region: Europe
- Flowers: No Flowers
- Fruit: Cones, 1-2 inches long
- Uses: Planted for ornamentation and roadside beautification
Mugo Pine, sometimes known as Pinus mugo Turra, is a dwarf and spreading evergreen tree native to Europe’s hilly regions. Because of its modest stature and appealing appearance, it is a popular choice for landscaping.
This pine tree grows to a mature height of 3 to 5 feet (1 to 1.5 meters) and has a spreading shape. Mugo Pine leaves are dark yellow-green and usually not twisted. They develop in clusters of two and are 1 to 3 inches long. The tree produces cones that are 1 to 2 inches in length.
The Mugo Pine is often used for adornment in gardens and for beautifying dry and grave hillsides along the roadside in its native habitat. Because of its modest size and lovely foliage, it is also a popular choice for landscaping in Maine. This pine tree is well-suited to Maine’s climate because it can withstand colder temperatures and adapts to a variety of soil types.
Mugo Pine thrives in full sun and should be planted in well-draining soil. It is a low-maintenance tree that does not require much pruning. However, it is critical to keep an eye on its progress and prune any dead or damaged branches as needed. To encourage good growth, watering should be done regularly, especially during dry months.
Mugo Pine has some useful purposes in addition to being a beautiful tree. Because of its dense growth pattern, it can be used as a natural windbreak or screen. Because of its tiny stature, it is ideal for smaller gardens or as a border plant. Mugo Pine is also known to attract wildlife, particularly birds, which may be a beautiful sight in a garden setting.
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Common Pine Trees In Maine – Sources
The Regional Gardening team makes sure that the information in our articles is accurate by only using sources that are known to be trustworthy. Some of these sources are peer-reviewed journals from government agencies, well-known universities, and scientific research organizations.
- Forest Trees of Maine, Maine Department Of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry
- Identify Maine’s Common Foliage Trees, Maine Foilage
- Plants for the Maine Landscape, University Of Maine Cooperative Extension.
- Gardening to Conserve Maine’s Native Landscape, University Of Maine Cooperative Extension
