Not every evergreen looks like it’s out of a Rudolph’s Christmas special.  Jack Pine is one of them.  It tends to be short and bushy, especially in poor soils; not the classic Holiday Tree.  Yet in spite of that, it has many virtues for the landscaper.  Its bushiness makes it an excellent windbreak or privacy screen, especially if you are planting it in difficult soils or part shade.  In rich soil, however it can achieve 30 to 50 feet in height, spreading 20 to 30 feet in width.  

Jack Pine provides an excellent habitat for wildlife, producing abundant cones and providing good cover in winter.  If you are naturalizing a large plot, this tree is a good choice.  Jack Pine grows across the northern forests of North America, penetrating to Central Minnesota, although some strains will do well even further south.  Indeed, the tree will grow from zone 2 through 6.  It is, however, sensitive to pine wilt in these more southern locations. Virginia Pine, a close relative, is a better choice in the Southern Midwest.  Since Jack Pine does grow well in poor soils, it is often a pioneer plant in burned off or disturbed areas.  

If you have access to a pure Jack Pine forest, blueberries frequently proliferate in the understory.  Making for great foraging!

Jack Pine is easy to grow from seed, although sometimes the cones have to be burned to force seed release.  The tree requires full sun although it will thrive in relatively poor soils.   With two short needles per bundle, it produces a lovely fine texture.  In the winter, needles tend to turn a golden green, forming a nice contrast to the true green needles of other evergreens.

In environments with cold winters, Jack Pine is relatively maintenance free.  Further south, as noted, some difficulties can occur.  Root rot and certain rusts are potential problems.  So, for you folks Up North, this one’s for you!

Photo Credits: Missouri Botanical Garden (1-2)