Pinus contorta aka Lodgepole Pine

Taxonomy

Pinus contorta, commonly known as lodgepole pine or shore pine, is a dwarf, slow-growing conifer found in western North America. It can be commonly found near the ocean shore and in dry montane forests, but is rare in lowland rain forests. With its broadly conical outline, this evergreen tree has pairs of green needles that measure around 4-5cm in length during summer and autumn. However, during winter and spring, these needles turn a brilliant yellow color. Lodgepole Pine, also known as twisted pine or contorta pine, is a super rare houseplant that is easy to grow. It thrives with regular watering and prefers long-lasting, direct light, ideally placed less than 1 foot from a window. This plant belongs to the Pinus genus and is native to the Western United States and Canada. Additionally, it prefers well-draining soil and does not usually require added fertilizers if it is repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Lodgepole Pine, Contorta Pine, Twisted Pine, Sierra Lodgepole Pine, Shore Pine

How to care for Lodgepole Pine

Difficulty

Caring for Lodgepole Pine is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Lodgepole Pine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Lodgepole Pine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Lodgepole Pine requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Shore Pine is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

The Lodgepole Pine is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Lodgepole Pine as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Lodgepole Pine’s native range is Western N. America - Alaska to California.


More info:
Wikipedia