bristlecone pine
Pinus aristata
USDA zones4 to 7
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size8 to 20 feet tall10 to 15 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Slow
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Bloom color
- Purple
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Circumneutral (pH 6.8-7.2)
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Bristlecone pine (Pinus aristata) is a slow-growing evergreen tree for specimen planting, rock gardens, accents, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to average, loamy or clay soil. Its short, contorted trunk and aromatic needles give it a picturesque look. Deer usually look elsewhere for a meal. Give it shelter from drying winds in cold climates to prevent foliage burn.
Pairs well with Blue fescue, Blue grama, and Woolly yarrow.
Native range
AZ, CO, and NM.