Pinus ponderosa aka Ponderosa Pine
Taxonomy
Pinus ponderosa, also known as the ponderosa pine, bull pine, blackjack pine, western yellow-pine, or filipinus pine, is a very large pine tree species native to mountainous regions of western North America. It is the most widely distributed pine species in North America. The tree has handsome, scaly brown bark and dark green needles that can grow up to 25cm in length. The cones of Pinus ponderosa are about 15cm in length. This evergreen coniferous tree is cultivated for its edible pine nuts and is often planted as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks around the world. It has gained recognition from the Royal Horticultural Society with the Award of Garden Merit. The bark of mature trees is yellow to orange-red in broad plates, while younger trees have blackish-brown bark. Pinus ponderosa has five subspecies, each characterized by different needle lengths and fascicle arrangements. The Pacific subspecies has the longest and most flexible needles, while the central High Plains subspecies has the fewest needles and distinctive upright branches. Overall, Pinus ponderosa is a versatile and widely recognized pine tree species with a rich history.
Common names
Ponderosa Pine, Western Yellow Pine, Blackjack Pine, Bull PineHow to care for Ponderosa Pine
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Ponderosa Pine due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Ponderosa Pine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Ponderosa 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
Ponderosa Pine thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Blackjack Pine.
Toxicity
Ponderosa Pine is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Fertilizer
The Ponderosa 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.
Region of origin
Ponderosa Pine’s native range is Western N. America - British Columbia to N. Mexico.
More info:
Wikipedia
