Family: Pinaceae
Author: Douglas ex D.Don
Bibliography: A.B.Lambert, Descr. Pinus, ed. 3, 2: 144 bis (1832)
Year: 1832
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Pinus
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. Canada to W. U.S.A.
Description
The California mountain pine, scientifically known as Pinus monticola, is a notable species within the Pinaceae family. This majestic tree predominantly thrives in the western regions of Canada and the United States, gracing the rugged landscapes with its towering presence.
First described in 1832 by the distinguished botanist Douglas, with recognition from D.Don, Pinus monticola has been studied extensively in botanical literature, notably appearing in A.B. Lambert’s “Description of Pines” (3rd edition, volume 2, page 144). This pine is not just a marvel in terms of its grandeur and resilience but also holds significant ecological importance within its native habitats.
The California mountain pine can be identified by its straight, usually tall trunk, which supports long, slender branches covered in soft, blue-green needles clustered in bundles of five. These needles, alongside its distinct, elongated cones, lend the tree a graceful yet robust silhouette. It typically favors well-drained soils and can often be found flourishing on mountain slopes and in high-altitude forest regions, contributing to the stability and health of these ecosystems.
Ecologically, Pinus monticola plays a crucial role. Its extensive root systems prevent soil erosion, while its seeds provide nourishment for various wildlife species. Moreover, the tree is valued for its high-quality wood, known for its straight grain and fine texture, making it a preferred material for construction and craftsmanship.
Observing the California mountain pine in its natural habitat can be a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and botanists alike. Its presence in Western Canada and the Western United States symbolizes the unique and diverse flora of these regions, standing as a testament to the enduring beauty and adaptability of nature.
In summary, the California mountain pine is not just a tree, but a pillar of the ecosystems it inhabits, showcasing the intricate balance and interdependence within nature. Its historical and botanical significance continues to be a subject of admiration and study, ensuring that Pinus monticola remains an integral part of our natural heritage.
Common Names
Eng: california mountain pine, idaho white pine, mountain white pine, silver pine, western white pine
Deu: gebirgsstrobe, westliche weymouths-kiefer, westliche weymouthskiefer
Hun: nyugati selyemfenyo
Fra: pin argenté, pin blanc de l’ouest, pin montagnard
Ita: pino bianco occidentale
Rus: сосна калифорнийская горная (sosna kalifornijskaya gornaya)
Zho: 加州山松 (jia zhou shan song)
Nno: vestleg kvitfuru
Nob: vestlig hvitfuru
En: California mountain pine, Idaho white pine, Mountain white pine, Silver pine, Western white pine
Zh: 加州山松 (jia zhou shan song)
Fr: Pin argenté, Pin blanc de l’Ouest, Pin montagnard
De: Gebirgsstrobe, Westliche Weymouths-Kiefer, Westliche Weymouthskiefer
Hu: Nyugati selyemfenyo
It: Pino bianco occidentale
Nb: Vestlig hvitfuru
Nn: Vestleg kvitfuru
Ru: Сосна калифорнийская горная (sosna kalifornijskaya gornaya)
Synonyms
- Pinus porphyrocarpa (A.Murray bis)
- Pinus strobus var. monticola ((Douglas ex D.Don) Nutt.)
- Pinus monticola var. digitata (Lemmon)
- Pinus strobus subsp. monticola ((Douglas ex D.Don) A.E.Murray)
- Pinus monticola f. porphyrocarpa ((A.Murray bis) P.Landry)
- Pinus grozelieri (Carrière)
- Pinus monticola var. minima (Lemmon)
- Pinus monticola var. porphyrocarpa ((A.Murray bis) Mast.)
- Strobus monticola ((Douglas ex D.Don) Rydb.)
Distribution
- Alberta (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Washington (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Apr 13, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 13, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 1, 1994 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 1, 1994 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 1, 1994 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Jul 4, 2022 by joshua jebin (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5285621)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:197032-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pinus monticola Douglas ex D.Don)
Specifications
Growth form>: Single Stem
Growth habit>: Tree
Growth rate>: Rapid
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.0
Ph minimum: 5.5
