Ponderosa Pine

Pinus ponderosa

PY-nus pon-der-OH-suh
50 to 60 ft.
20 to 30 ft.

very low

NA

NA

50 to 60 ft.

20 to 30 ft.

Yes

western North America

sun

USDA zones 3-7

hardy to 9,000 ft.

Ponderosa pine is one of the most common native evergreen trees found on the eastern slope of Colorado. Often used in landscapes, it is a large tree, with an open branching pattern and long, medium green needles. The mature bark is yellowish-brown to cinnamon and arranged in plates, which may give off a vanilla scent.

Ponderosa pine drops its lower branches as it grows. Established trees will tolerate dry soil conditions. This is a good, xeric, large evergreen tree for the Pikes Peak area.

very low

NA

NA

50 to 60 ft.

20 to 30 ft.

Yes

western North America

sun

USDA zones 3-7

hardy to 9,000 ft.

At the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, the ponderosa pines have grown successfully with minimal winter injury, disease, or insect pests. In natural areas, ponderosa pines can be susceptible to mountain pine beetle damage. They may need preventative insecticide spray to protect them in certain areas.

Selective pruning may be needed occasionally.