Scrub Pine
Pinus virginiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pinus virginiana (Scrub Pine) is a hardy evergreen tree native to eastern and southeastern United States. This drought-tolerant pine thrives in poor soils and full sun conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Scrub Pine as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–480" H × 120"–300" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, DE, GA, IN and 12 more states
Scrub pine is a fast-growing native evergreen that develops an open, irregular crown with age. This hardy tree thrives in poor soils and drought conditions, making it excellent for challenging sites where other trees struggle.
Growing Scrub Pine
Grow Scrub Pine in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 120 to 300 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Scrub 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.
- Naturally scraggly appearance looks unkempt
- Name includes 'scrub' which suggests weedy character
- Irregular branching pattern lacks formal landscape appeal
Wildlife value
Host plant for Pine Webworm Moth, Pine Sphinx.
Provides important habitat and nesting sites for birds, while the seeds feed wildlife including squirrels and various bird species.
Common questions
- Where does Pinus virginiana naturally grow?
- Scrub Pine is native to 18 states across the eastern and southeastern United States, including Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and surrounding states.
- What growing conditions does Scrub Pine prefer?
- Pinus virginiana tolerates poor, dry soils and prefers full sun exposure. It is highly drought-tolerant once established and can grow in areas where other pines struggle.
- How large does Scrub Pine typically grow?
- Scrub Pine is a small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching 15-40 feet in height with an irregular, often scraggly crown that gives it its common name.
- Is Scrub Pine toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Scrub Pine as toxic to livestock.
- Is Scrub Pine HOA-friendly?
- Scrub 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 Scrub 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