sand pine
(Pinus clausa (Chapman ex Engelm.) Vasey ex Sarg.)

Overview

Appearance

Pinus clausa is native to Florida and one county in Alabama. It can be invasive in other areas of the United States. It is a small evergreen tree that grows from 20-40 ft. tall. It is a scrubby tree with a bushy crown and the branches tend to angle upwards. The bark is thin and reddish to gray brown. In younger trees the bark is relatively smooth but as trees mature they develop scaly patches.

Foliage

The foliage is evergreen needles held in fascicles of 2. Needles are 2-3 in. long, slightly twisted and yellow green in color.

Flowers

The flowers are cylindrical. Male flowers are yellow and held near the tip of the branches. Female flowers vary from yellow to purple.

Fruit

Fruits are cones from 2-3.5 in. long. They are reddish brown to gray-brown and persistent on the branches.

Ecological Threat

Pinus clausa can escape cultivation and become established on dry sites. It can be found on dry, sandy soils. It can survive in poor, infertile, sandy soils where few other tree species can survive.

Selected Images

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• Invasive Species of Concern in Georgia

References