It’s the state tree of L‘Étoile du Nord, which, of course, is the state motto of Minnesota.  Indeed, red pine is as Minnesotan as hot dish and dessert bars.  So where does this venerable conifer fit into the landscaping picture?  It probably is not the best choice for a small lot, growing 65 to 115 feet in height with about a 3-foot trunk.  In larger lots or farmsteads, however, stands of the tree it can make a striking addition or serve as an admirable windbreak.  It is native to the Upper Midwest with a range from Newfoundland west to Manitoba and south to Pennsylvania with populations down the Appalachian mountain range.  It is sometimes called “Norway pine.”  It is hypothesized that this name came from early Norwegian settlers mistaking it for the Scotch pine found back home.  At least that’s what the Swedes say! 

Red pine grows in full sunlight, shooting up straight and true.  This growth feature made it especially attractive to lumbermen of the early 19^th century, leading to the great lumber baron fortunes of that period (and the despoliation of countless acres of Minnesota woodland).  Interestingly, red pine is self-pruning.  Thus, you don’t see dead branches below the canopy in forests. The needles are long, dark yellow-green and brittle.  Pine cones are classic 1 ½ to 3 ½ inch long and broad.  The bark forms reddish-brown plates as the tree matures; thus, the name red pine.  

In sighting red pine, be aware that you may get by with part sun, but it is quite intolerant of full shade.  It is hardy from Zones 2 through 5, so that means all of Minnesota.   It will grow on nutrient-poor, sandy soil unfavorable to most species.  It likes average moisture in well-drained loam.  Although it is grown, plantation style in straight rows for the lumber industry, red pine is also abundant in our northern forests.  It serves as nesting habitat for eagles as well as other birds.

In cold, northern climates, red pine has few problems.  However, in warmer climates as seen in the southern part of the state, it may fall prey to a number of insect pests and diseases.  Needle cast, needle blight, root rots, bark cancer and rusts may be issues.  Budworms, sawflies, pine beetles, tussock moth and pine needle miners can plague the tree.  

So, if you have the appropriate site, consider red pine.  A healthy, established stand will be a stately joy for many years.  Life spans up to 500 years have been reported for this hardy Star of the North!

Photo Credits: University of Minnesota Extension (1-3)