table-mountain pine (Pinus pungens)
Family: Pinaceae
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| Form:
This is a small tree reaching an average maximum height of 25-40 ft. |
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| Needles: Arrangement: 2 per fascicle Length: 2-3 inches long Shape: stiff; often twisted; dark green |
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| Bark:
It has gray and scaly bark that becomes dark red-brown with plate-like scales when mature. |
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| Cones:
The serotinous cones are ovoid with sharp stout spines at the end of the heavy scales. |
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| Distinguishing Characteristics:
Look for cones that are attached at the main stem on young trees. When the cones are closed the spines are even more conspicuous. |
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| Range:
Pockets of this species occur along the Appalachians between southern Pennsylvania and north Georgia typically in elevations between 1650 and 4500 ft. |
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| Silvics:
This pine is intolerant of shade. It occurs on dry rocky ridges and slopes. |
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| Ecological and Cultural Importance:
The species is often found in pure stands which can and have been maintained through periodic fires. It’s serotinous cones develop early in life and the species is short-lived making it very dependant on reoccurring fires. |
