How tall can the sugar pine grow in Yosemite National Park?
The sugar pine in Yosemite National Park reaches 270 feet into the air. This towering specimen stands as a testament to the genus Pinus, which contains over 134 recognized species today.
Questions about Pine
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Pinus yorkshirensis fossils first appear in England?
Pinus yorkshirensis fossils date back approximately 130 million years within the Speeton Clay of England. This Early Cretaceous specimen represents the oldest verified fossil record for the genus.
Where does Pinus merkusii grow across the equator?
One species named Pinus merkusii crosses the equator into Sumatra at 2° South latitude. Various species occur across North American regions ranging from 66°N down to 12°N.
Why do some pine species require wildfires to survive?
Pinus contorta requires wildfires to maintain healthy populations of diverse ages within its habitat. Some species like Pinus muricata need fire to open their cones for seed dispersal.
What is the commercial value of untreated pine wood?
Pine wood lacks resistance to insects or decay when untreated so it suits indoor framing only. Canadian Lumber Standard grades this material for domestic construction projects.
How long can pine needles persist on a tree before falling off?
These needles persist for anywhere from 1.5 to 40 years depending on the specific species. The leaves of these trees appear in bundles called fascicles containing two to five needles each.