Shortleaf Pine (Pinus echinata)

Shortleaf Pine

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Pine Grove Picnic Area

Significance:

Evergreen Tree

Designation:

Tree Identification

Amenities

4 listed

Cellular Signal, Information, Picnic Table, Restroom

Shortleaf Pine (Pinus echinata)

Shortleaf pine is a coniferous tree that is native to southeastern United States. It reaches a height between 80-100 feet tall. Its leaves are shaped like needles. Shortleaf pine has a unique bark which makes it easy to identify from other pine trees. Its bark has irregular scales with resin pockets. Historically, shortleaf pine is an important source of lumber for construction and a popular source of resin which was made into tar and used as a wood preservative, wood sealant and for a variety of medicinal uses. Since shortleaf pine wood is so rich with resin, it is highly flammable and makes a reliable fire-starter.