The longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) is primarily found in the lower two-thirds
of the state, but also grows in some areas of northern Alabama. This stately evergreen
produces the largest cones of any Eastern pine.
 Longleaf is different from other pines because it
develops very little above ground during the first few years of its life. During
this "grass stage" the top of the tree consists of a dense bunch of green
needles. In its first few years the tree puts on diameter growth and develops a tap root,
but doesn't grow
much in height.
The tree is also distinguished by the fact
that the needles are clustered near the end of the branches on older trees. The dark green
needles are in bundles of three and are 10 to 15 inches long. Longleaf can grow to a
height of 100 feet with a diameter of up to 3 feet.
The wood of this tree is heavy, very hard,
strong and durable. Because of its tall, straight trunk, longleaf is often used for poles.
The wood is also used for lumber, flooring and pulpwood. Longleaf is also the leading
producer ofnaval stores, with the trees being tapped for turpentine and resin.
 At one time longleaf pine was a
dominant tree species in the South. Today only about 3 percent (3 million acres) remains
of what once existed. This tree is very well adapted to fire. In fact, longleaf often
requires fire to prepare seedbeds for germination. The absence of fire in modern times,
along with the fact that longleaf doesn't produce large seed crops on a regular basis are
two factors that have contributed to its reduction. However, with a renewed interest in
this species and an understanding of how to manage it, longleaf is making a comeback.
Top
Home
Back |
