Plant of the month March 2025: Pinus banksiana (shrub pine)

The Scots pine (Pinus banksiana) is a hardy small tree with an irregular conical growth habit. It usually reaches a height of up to 15 meters and a width of around 10 meters. Its needle-shaped, slightly twisted leaves are dark green in color and give it a characteristic appearance.

Particularly noteworthy is its high frost tolerance, which makes it a suitable choice for climatically demanding locations. It prefers sunny locations with well-drained, lime-free soil and is extremely adaptable to different environmental conditions.

The natural range of the Scots pine extends across North America, from the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains to Nova Scotia. Its southern limit of distribution is in the northwest of Indiana. It can be found at altitudes of up to 800 meters and is particularly common in open, dry landscapes.

Thanks to its robust nature and individual growth habit, the Scots pine is suitable for both semi-natural plantings and locations with difficult conditions.

The natural range of Pinus banksiana extends in North America east of the Rocky Mountains to Nova Scotia. Its southern limit of distribution is the northwest of Indiana. It thrives at altitudes of 0 to 800 meters.

• Growth type: Small tree
• Bark: Dark gray, scaly bark
• Fruit: Brown, oval cones
• Water: The plant has a medium water requirement

• Height of growth: 6-15m
• Flowering time: evergreen
• Leafcolor: its needles are dark green, twisted
• Soil: normal garden soil, sunny

Pinus banksiana is a deep-rooter and prefers sunny locations. It has good frost hardiness and thrives in normal soil.Use:The shrub pine is suitable as a solitary plant, but can also be planted in groups.