The Loblolly Pine Tree is a Fast-Growing Evergreen

The loblolly pine tree is known for reaching heights of about 100 feet and spreading up to 35 feet; the dramatic but easy-growing loblolly pine tree (Pinus taeda) creates a striking dark-green screen in warmer months.

These ornamental trees truly provide four-season interest. During southern winters, the loblolly pine tree turns a lighter color. That’s also when its intriguing pine cones and silvery bark come into fuller view.

Pinus Taeda Creates a Quick Screen

Whether in a pyramid shape during its younger years or its later oval silhouette, the loblolly pine tree creates a quick screen. These trees grow an astounding 2 feet a year, on average. That rapid growth is prized by commercial landscapers and homeowners alike for their ability to block unsightly views.

A single tree can provide effective screening in many situations. And with just a few, you can create a living wall if you have significant street frontage or a stiff back border.

The Loblolly Pine Tree Provides Drama — and Shade

Of course, its dramatic shape and branch structure make each loblolly pine tree a striking specimen. These single-trunk trees feature silvery, deeply-ridged bark, while the new and mature cones of Pinus taeda are ornamental.

After a few years, the loblolly pine tree loses its lower branches, transforming it into an ideal shade tree. Along with offering comfort to humans, this evergreen is prized by native wildlife. If you’re a bird lover, you can look forward to visits from brown-headed nuthatches, Carolina chickadees, northern bobwhites, rufous-sided towhees, and wild turkeys.

The fact that one of Pinus taeda’s common names is “rosemary pine” is no accident. Along with its dramatic looks and practical screening applications, loblolly pine is also treasured for its aromatic, rosemary-like scent.

Choose the Loblolly Pine Tree for Carefree Landscaping

This North American native is hardy in zones 6B to 9B. Because its irregular limbs are part of its charm and relatively impervious to breakage, Pinus taeda does not generally require pruning.

The loblolly pine tree prefers full sun and will tolerate various soil conditions, from drought to occasional flooding. Likewise, the loblolly thrives in both acidic clay soils and well-drained, sandy soils.

Because Pinus taeda’s natural tendency is to lose lower branches as it grows older, it’s an ideal element to plant shade-loving plants either under or surrounding it.

Pinus Taeda Resists the Elements

Along with being easy-going in terms of its growing conditions, the loblolly pine tree also acts as an excellent windbreak. Use it to cut down on harsh winds and even noise pollution. This tree is also moderately tolerant of salty spray if you live near a beach.

In addition, the extra-thick bark of the loblolly pine tree makes it more fire-resistant than other trees in its class. If fire, wind, or street noise are a concern in your area, consider the loblolly pine tree for its usefulness and good looks.