Pinus echinata
Shortleaf Pine

Mature Height: 80-150'     Longevity: 400 years

2-6 Water Range
Soil moisture tolerated by tree

6-8 Temperature Range
Hardiness Zones in which tree naturally occurs.

DEFENSE     Soil Moisture Key
2: Frequent mention of occurrence on dry, well-drained sandy & upland areas. Silvics Manual indicates does not do well on excessively drained sites. Drought tolerance of "Mid".

6: No flood tolerance identified. Harlow & Harrar indicates tree found on well-drained areas along streams & small rivers. Borderline 6/7 tree.

DEFENSE (from Distribution Maps)
National Audubon Society (NAS) Map: (NORTH) Solid Z6. (SOUTH) Solid Z8.

Peterson Field Guide (PFG) Map: Same as NAS.

7   Sun Strength

3   Shade Strength

DEFENSE
Growth Rate:
Succession:
Soil Range:
Salt Tol.:
Allelopath:
Avg Height:
Max Height:

Click here for Key
6.5 = Rapid*
+.3 = Pioneer Capable
-.2 = 1 Major*
0 =???
0 = No
+.2 = 90'
+.1 = 150'

DEFENSE
Shade Tol.:
Succession:
Soil Range:
Salt Tol.:
Allelopath:
Avg Height:
Longevity:

Click here for Key
3.2 = slightly > intolerant
0 = not climax
-.2 = 1 Major*
0 =???
0 = No
+.1 = 90'
+.1 = 400 years

TOTAL SCORE (6.9): *NRCS Plants database 20yr height is very high, but Harlow & Harrar and Silvics Manual qualitative descriptions not glowing. Only one major soil order listed in Silvics Manual, but also states that tree occurs in many other soil orders so only adjusted "-.2".

TOTAL SCORE (3.2): Not completely shade intolerant, but can not compete with most hardwoods. Relies on fire to remain sub-climax dominant.

5   Fire Strength

3   Wind Strength

DEFENSE
Base Score: High (Big Tree) = 5
Well adapted and reliant on fire. A true fire specialist.
Final Value = 5

DEFENSE
Base Score: ???
While windfirm on good sites, reports that tree can be subject to windthrow on poorer sites where it can not develop a deep taproot. Grows quite tall.
Final Value = 3