Form: This is a medium sized tree reaching heights of 50 to 90 ft. and a dbh of 2 to 3 ft.

Needles:
             

Arrangement: 2 per fascicle

Length: 4-6" long

Shape: serrulate

Other: brittle and  breaking when doubled; dark yellow-green in color

 

Bark: The bark has a distinctly red to reddish-brown color. It has scales when young that later mature into large plates.

Cones: The cones are long, ovid, and brown in color.

Distinguishing characteristics: This species has a distinctive red bark, ovid cones, and two needles per fascicle. It self-prunes lower branches easily.

Range: This species occurs around the Great Lakes area, as well as, the north eastern U.S.

Silvics: This species is intolerant and occurs on light sandy soils.

Ecological and cultural importance: The wood is used for lumber, railroad ties, and mine timbers. It is a major pine reforestation species in the northern U.S. Moose, deer, and snowshoe hares browse this species.