Form: This is a small tree reaching an average maximum height of 25-40 ft.

Needles:
             

 

Arrangement: 2 per fascicle

Length: 2-3 inches long

Shape: stiff; often twisted; dark green

 

 

Bark: It has gray and scaly bark that becomes dark red-brown with plate-like scales when mature.

Cones: The serotinous cones are ovoid with sharp stout spines at the end of the heavy scales.

Distinguishing characteristics: Look for cones that are attached at the main stem on young trees. When the cones are closed the spines are even more conspicuous.

Range: Pockets of this species occur along the Appalachians between southern Pennsylvania and north Georgia typically in elevations between 1650 and 4500 ft.

Silvics: This pine is intolerant of shade. It occurs on dry rocky ridges and slopes.

Ecological and cultural importance: The species is often found in pure stands which can and have been maintained through periodic fires. It's serotinous cones develop early in life and the species is short-lived making it very dependant on reoccurring fires.