Longleaf Pine
Pinus palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Longleaf Pine is a tall evergreen tree native to the southeastern United States from Virginia to Texas. This fire-adapted species blooms from March through November and thrives in full sun with well-drained soils.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Longleaf Pine as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
960"–1200" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 5 more states
Longleaf Pine is a majestic native Texas evergreen that can reach 80-100 feet tall with a distinctive open, irregular crown. This slow-growing pine develops extremely long needles (up to 18 inches) and produces large cones, creating a distinctive appearance among Southern pines. It's highly valued for its historical significance and exceptional longevity, often living 200-300 years.
Growing Longleaf Pine
Grow Longleaf Pine in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 960 to 1200 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Longleaf 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.
- Tree size exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
Supports numerous bird species including red-cockaded woodpeckers, brown-headed nuthatches, and pine warblers. The large seeds provide food for squirrels and other wildlife, while the open canopy allows native understory plants to flourish.
Common questions
- Where does Longleaf Pine naturally grow?
- Longleaf Pine is native to nine southeastern states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.
- When does Longleaf Pine bloom?
- Longleaf Pine produces pollen cones from March through November, with peak pollen production typically occurring in spring and early summer.
- What growing conditions does Longleaf Pine prefer?
- Longleaf Pine requires full sun exposure and performs best in well-drained, sandy soils with low to medium water availability. It is highly adapted to fire-prone ecosystems.
- How large does Longleaf Pine grow?
- Longleaf Pine can reach heights of 80-100 feet at maturity, developing a distinctive open crown with long needles that can measure 8-18 inches in length.
- Is Longleaf Pine toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Longleaf Pine as toxic to livestock.
- Is Longleaf Pine HOA-friendly?
- Longleaf 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.
Does Longleaf Pine fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.