Jack Pine
Pinus banksiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Jack Pine is a hardy evergreen conifer native to northern and Great Lakes states from Maine to North Dakota. This fire-adapted tree thrives in poor, sandy soils and full sun conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Jack Pine as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
IL, IN, MA, ME and 12 more states
Jack pine is a hardy evergreen tree that tolerates poor soils and harsh conditions. It develops an irregular, open crown with sparse branching and can reach 30-60 feet tall at maturity. This pioneer species naturally grows in sandy or rocky areas and requires minimal care once established.
Growing Jack Pine
Grow Jack Pine in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 360 to 720 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Jack Pine takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Irregular, scraggly growth habit looks unkempt
- Can appear sparse and wild rather than manicured
- Large mature size may overwhelm typical residential lots
Wildlife value
Host plant for pine sphinx moth.
Jack pine provides nesting sites and shelter for various birds, and its seeds feed woodpeckers, nuthatches, and small mammals. The tree supports several native moth and butterfly species as a host plant.
Common questions
- Where does Jack Pine naturally grow?
- Jack Pine is native to northern states including Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, and North Dakota.
- What growing conditions does Jack Pine prefer?
- Jack Pine thrives in full sun and tolerates poor, sandy, acidic soils with low to moderate moisture. It is extremely hardy and adapted to harsh conditions including fire and drought.
- Is Jack Pine a fast-growing tree?
- Jack Pine is considered a moderate to fast-growing conifer, especially in its preferred sandy soil conditions. It can reach 35-50 feet tall at maturity.
- When does Jack Pine produce cones?
- Jack Pine produces male and female cones in late spring, typically May to June. The serotinous cones often remain closed for years until opened by heat from forest fires.
- Is Jack Pine toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Jack Pine as toxic to livestock.
- Is Jack Pine HOA-friendly?
- Jack Pine takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Jack Pine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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