Singleleaf Pinyon Pine
Pinus monophylla
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pinus monophylla (Singleleaf Pinyon Pine) is a drought-tolerant evergreen tree native to the southwestern United States. It thrives in full sun and low-water conditions across Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah and surrounding states.
Singleleaf Pinyon Pine is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
240"–480" H × 180"–360" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AZ, CA, ID, NV and 2 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Singleleaf pinyon pine is a slow-growing evergreen tree with distinctive single needles and a rounded, compact crown. This drought-tolerant pine produces edible nuts and maintains an attractive shape without pruning. It provides year-round structure to the landscape.
Growing Singleleaf Pinyon Pine
Grow Singleleaf Pinyon Pine in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 180 to 360 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Singleleaf Pinyon Pine is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Very slow growth may frustrate impatient neighbors
- Large mature size requires adequate spacing
Wildlife value
This pine provides seeds that feed birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. The dense branching offers nesting sites and shelter for various bird species.
Common questions
- What makes Singleleaf Pinyon Pine different from other pines?
- Pinus monophylla is unique among pines because it typically produces single needles rather than clusters of multiple needles. It also produces large, edible pine nuts that have been an important food source for Native American peoples.
- Where does Pinus monophylla naturally grow?
- Singleleaf Pinyon Pine is native to the Great Basin and southwestern United States, including Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, South Dakota, and Utah. It typically grows in pinyon-juniper woodlands at elevations between 3,000-8,000 feet.
- How much water does Singleleaf Pinyon Pine need?
- This species is highly drought-tolerant and adapted to arid conditions. Once established, Pinus monophylla requires minimal supplemental watering and can survive on natural rainfall in its native range.
- Is Singleleaf Pinyon Pine toxic to livestock?
- Singleleaf Pinyon Pine is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- Is Singleleaf Pinyon Pine HOA-friendly?
- Singleleaf Pinyon 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 Singleleaf Pinyon 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