Jeffrey Pine
Pinus jeffreyi
Also listed as Pinus deflexa, Pinus jeffreyana
Also known as Jeffrey's Pine, Yellow Pine, Western Yellow Pine
Climate Match for your location
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A tall coniferous tree native to high-elevation mountains of California and Oregon, known for its long needles and large, heavy cones. It thrives in cold, dry climates and is extremely drought-tolerant once established.
Why grow it
Jeffrey pine offers superior drought tolerance and cold hardiness compared to many ornamental conifers, making it a reliable choice for high-elevation or water-limited sites in the western US. Its large cones and long needles provide visual interest, and it grows steadily in poor, rocky soils where competing species struggle. The tree's dense canopy also provides effective windbreak and erosion control on exposed slopes.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate poorly drained or compacted conditions, particularly in warmer lowland settings. Young trees may need protection from intense afternoon sun in non-native growing regions until they establish. Expect slow initial growth during establishment, even in favorable conditions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Pinaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains, California and Oregon
Native to: California, Nevada, Oregon
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A tall coniferous tree native to high-elevation mountains of California and Oregon, known for its long needles and large, heavy cones. It thrives in cold, dry climates and is extremely drought-tolerant once established.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Jeffrey Pine grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Jeffrey pine offers superior drought tolerance and cold hardiness compared to many ornamental conifers, making it a reliable choice for high-elevation or water-limited sites in the western US. Its large cones and long needles provide visual interest, and it grows steadily in poor, rocky soils where competing species struggle. The tree's dense canopy also provides effective windbreak and erosion control on exposed slopes.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate poorly drained or compacted conditions, particularly in warmer lowland settings. Young trees may need protection from intense afternoon sun in non-native growing regions until they establish. Expect slow initial growth during establishment, even in favorable conditions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Pinaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains, California and Oregon
Native to: California, Nevada, Oregon
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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