Ponderosa Pine
Pinus ponderosa
Last reviewed: July 2026
Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Ponderosa Pine as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
480"–720" H × 240"–360" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ponderosa pine is a large, stately evergreen tree with distinctive orange-red bark that develops deep furrows with age. This drought-tolerant native can reach 40-60 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide, making it an excellent specimen tree for spacious landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ponderosa Pine is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Requires substantial space due to mature size
- Needle drop may need occasional cleanup
Wildlife value
Provides nesting sites and shelter for birds, while seeds feed squirrels, chipmunks, and various bird species. The tree supports several native moth and butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ponderosa Pine need?
- Ponderosa Pine grows best in full sun conditions.
- Where is Ponderosa Pine native?
- Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) is native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Ponderosa Pine toxic to dogs?
- Ponderosa Pine is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Ponderosa Pine toxic to cats?
- Ponderosa Pine is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Ponderosa Pine toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Ponderosa Pine as toxic to livestock.
- Is Ponderosa Pine HOA-friendly?
- Ponderosa Pine is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Ponderosa Pine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz