White Pine Tree (Pinus strobus or guow)
White pine is native to Nova Scotia and is found in many forest types, often found towering over other trees. It is capable of growing quite large and can reach 140 cm in diameter. It’s an integral part of the Wabanaki-Acadian Forest, contributing to forest structural diversity and providing ecosystem services such as stabilization against soil erosion and carbon sequestration. White pine provides shelter and a nesting habitat, and their seeds are a food source for a variety of wildlife. They are a hardy, fast growing species that provide numerous ecological and cultural benefits. For example, white pine has been used for Millenia by Indigenous peoples throughout their native range. Their cambium is a valued food source while its pitch has numerous uses from building to medicinal.
QUICK FACTS AND TREE CARE:
- Typical max height: 20 – 40 metres
- Flowering season: May to June
- Moisture and soil preference: tolerates a variety of soils, but likes moist, acidic, well drained sandy soil. Does not like standing water.
- Shade tolerance: low to medium
- Site selection tip: white pine is at risk of windburn resulting in a reddening of leaves,. Make sure to plant in an area with low wind risk, full sun/partial shade and lots of room to grow and spread.
- Companion planting tips: try growing this tree with other iconic Wabanaki-Acadian tree species such as red spruce and red oak.
CLIMATE CHANGE STATS:
When this tree reaches 20 cm in diameter, it will provide the following benefits yearly*:
- 11 lbs carbon sequestered
- Stormwater mitigation:
- 98 liters of runoff avoided
- 5045 liters of rainfall intercepted
*Stats provided by: MyTree