Pine Species

The South is rich with a variety of pine species. Each species is diverse in its growth, development, and eventual product, while sharing some very basic commonalities. Most all pines are shade-intolerant, and require full sunlight in order to grow. They are a “pioneer” species, that regenerates naturally on disturbed sites where fire has occurred or old croplands have been abandoned.

Compared to hardwoods, pines

• have higher survival and growth rates on marginal lands;

• can tolerate low-nutrient, shallow soils and;

• can survive fluctuating weather and drought better.

There are ten species of pine that are native to the southern U.S.