Pine, Shortleaf, Bare Root

Shortleaf Pine (Pinus echinata)

Shortleaf Pine is a resilient, fire-adapted native pine of the southeastern U.S., valued for its fast growth, ecological importance, and role in reforestation and agroforestry systems. As the only pine species native to both the Piedmont and the Ozark-Ouachita Highlands, it is highly adaptable to a range of conditions—from dry uplands to rocky ridges to sandy loams. With its deep taproot, tolerance of fire and drought, and ability to resprout after damage, Shortleaf Pine is an essential species for ecological restoration, wildlife support, and timber production in regenerative landscapes.

Key Characteristics

• Native pine with deep taproot and drought tolerance
  Unlike many other eastern pines, Shortleaf Pine develops a strong taproot early, allowing it to survive drought, wind, and poor soils. This makes it especially useful in degraded site restoration and low-input silvopasture systems.
• Supports diverse wildlife and bird species
  The seeds are eaten by wild turkeys, northern bobwhite, and small mammals, while the dense foliage provides nesting and cover for birds. Pine forests also host many moths and butterflies, including the Pine Devil (Citheronia sepulcralis).
• Fire-adapted and ideal for ecological restoration
  Shortleaf Pine is one of the few pines that can resprout from the root collar after fire damage, making it valuable in fire-adapted forest systems and prescribed burn regimes. It plays a key role in restoring oak-pine savannas and mixed hardwood-pine forests.
• High-quality timber with fast early growth
  Though slower-growing than loblolly pine, Shortleaf produces high-quality, dense wood used for construction, furniture, and pulp. Its straight trunk and disease resistance make it a long-term investment in sustainable forestry.
• Great for erosion control and reforestation
  With its fast juvenile growth and soil-binding roots, Shortleaf Pine stabilizes slopes, reduces runoff, and builds forest structure quickly. It's an excellent choice for reclaiming old fields, mines, or eroded landscapes.

Product Details

• Native range: Southeastern U.S., from New York and Missouri south to Texas and Florida
• Plant life cycle: Evergreen Tree
• Sun requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Medium-dry to medium; prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soils
• Mature height: 50–100 feet
• Bloom time: Spring
• Bloom color: Inconspicuous (yellowish male cones, reddish female cones)
• USDA Hardiness zones: 6–9

Shortleaf Pine is a rugged, versatile tree that contributes to biodiversity, erosion control, and forest regeneration. A foundational species for those restoring pine-oak ecosystems, establishing silvopasture, or building climate-resilient timber systems.