Lodgepole Pine
Pinus contorta
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Lodgepole Pine as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
720"–1800" H × 240"–600" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lodgepole pine is a tall, slender evergreen tree with a narrow crown and straight trunk. It grows quite large at maturity and is adapted to cooler mountain climates. The tree has small needles and produces small cones.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lodgepole 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.
- Grows extremely large (60-150 feet tall)
- May outgrow most residential lots
Wildlife value
Provides nesting habitat for birds and shelter for various wildlife species. The seeds feed squirrels, chipmunks, and some bird species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lodgepole Pine need?
- Lodgepole Pine grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Lodgepole Pine native?
- Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Lodgepole Pine toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Lodgepole Pine as toxic to livestock.
- Is Lodgepole Pine HOA-friendly?
- Lodgepole 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 Lodgepole Pine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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