Pinus pungens aka Hickory Pine

Pinus pungens, or Table Mountain pine, is an evergreen tree. It belongs to the pine family, Pinaceae. Other names include bur pine, prickly pine, and hickory pine. It is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States. There, it grows alone or in small groups on dry, rocky slopes. Its native range has a temperate climate.

This small to medium tree can reach 65 feet [19.8 metres]. It has a short trunk and an uneven, spreading crown. The trunk measures about 1–1.5 feet [0.3–0.46 metres] across. Large, heavy branches help shape its outline. Dark brown bark forms uneven plates with small, reddish scales. The tough twigs have an orange-brown tint. Narrow, egg-shaped buds are light brown and often coated with resin.

The stiff needles twist and grow in tight pairs. Each measures about 0.13–0.21 feet [0.038–0.064 metres] long. They are yellow-green, with fine lines of stomata. Needles stay on the tree for two to three years. This pine bears cones rather than flowers. It can start making cones at five years old. The stout, light brown cones have glossy scales with hooked spines. Most clusters hold three or four cones with little or no stalk. Cones measure about 0.21–0.25 feet [0.064–0.076 metres] long. Their autumn display falls in September and October. Some open soon after ripening; others wait two to three years. Cones may stay attached for several years.

Grow this pine in full sun and soil that drains well. It suits loam and shallow, rocky ground. It accepts acid to neutral soil and withstands drought. The listed hardiness range covers USDA zones 5 through 7. Naturalized sites, woods, and native gardens suit its form. It also fits gardens planned for dry conditions. Gardeners sometimes plant it for ornament, though stock may be scarce. Its wood provides lumber, pulp, and fuel.

This tree supports wildlife as well as year-round foliage. Imperial moth larvae feed on it. It also draws birds, butterflies, other moths, and small mammals. Wind can damage the tree. Listed insect problems include bark beetles, pine engraver beetles, and southern pine sawyers. Deodar and eastern pine weevils can also cause problems. The supplied sources give no species-level guidance on human edibility or toxicity.