This tree is fairly widespread here in Colorado, and becomes more so as you go north along the continental divide. It tends to grow in thick stands, especially in burn areas. In fact the spiny, pitch-covered cones rely on heat from forest fires to open and can stay on the branch for several years.
Needles grow in groups of two, and the wood is fairly light and flexible. At higher elevations the tree can grow in more squat and contorted shapes.
2 responses to “Name the evergreen ”
lodgepole pine?
Righto! The variety found in the Rockies is also called Black Pine. These trees were an almost constant companion on my hike through northern Colorado and Montana last summer. Other Lodgepole varieties are found on the west coast.
Rack another one up for Mom B!