How much sun does Knobcone pine need?

Knobcone pine grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Knobcone pine bloom?

Knobcone pine blooms in April and May.

Where is Knobcone pine native?

Knobcone pine (Pinus attenuata) is native to CA, OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.

Knobcone pine

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Pinus attenuata

Last reviewed: September 2026

Toxicity unknown

Knobcone pine (Pinus attenuata) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

240"–960" H × 180"–360" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Native to

CA, OR

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Marine West Coast Forest Northwestern Forested Mountains Sierra Nevada Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Southern California Mountains Southern California/Northern Baja Coast

A fire-adapted conifer with an irregular, often asymmetrical crown and sealed cones that stay closed on the branches for years, only opening in intense heat. The persistent whorls of retained cones give it a cluttered, wild silhouette rather than a groomed one.

Wildlife value

Retained cones provide a long-term seed reserve for birds and squirrels, especially valuable after fire.

Common questions

How much sun does Knobcone pine need?: Knobcone pine grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Knobcone pine bloom?: Knobcone pine blooms in April and May.
Where is Knobcone pine native?: Knobcone pine (Pinus attenuata) is native to CA, OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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Common plant problems, and what to check first

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