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Red pine is susceptible to a number of disease and insect problems. These include Scleroderris canker (caused by the fungal pathogen Gremmeniella abietiana), various needlecast diseases, root rot diseases caused by Heterobasidion annosum and Armillaria mellea, redheaded pine sawfly (Neodiprion lecontei), pine tussock moth (Dasychira palgiata) and several species of wood-boring insects. Red pine is not recommended for planting anywhere in the Midwest. This species is native to North America, but is no longer recommended because of its susceptibility to these insect and disease problems.

To find suitable replacements for this tree, go The Morton Arboretum’s tree and plant finder. Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines on any selected species, and ensure that it is suitable for its habitat by reviewing planting considerations or by finding it in the USDA Plants Database.

  • Family (English) Pine
  • Family (botanic) Pinaceae
  • Tree or plant type Tree
  • Foliage Evergreen (foliage year-round)
  • Native locale North America
  • Size range Large tree (more than 40 feet)
  • Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
  • Hardiness zones Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois)
  • Soil preference Acid soil, Moist, Sandy soil, well-drained soil
  • Tolerances Dry sites
  • Season of interest early winter, midwinter, late winter, early spring, mid spring, late spring, early summer, midsummer, late summer, early fall, mid fall, late fall
  • Flower color and fragrance Inconspicuous
  • Shape or form Irregular, Oval, Upright
  • Growth rate Moderate

More Information

Size and Method of Spreading

Red pine is a large evergreen tree reaching 50 to 80 feet high with varying width. Older trees develop an oval habit with lateral branches that start relatively low to the ground.

Native Geographic Location and Habitat

Native to the northeastern United States, from Pennsylvania to Canada and west into parts of Michigan.

Bark Color and Texture

The immature bark is orange-red and scaly, while the mature bark is reddish-brown in color with large, flat, irregularly shaped plates.

Leaf Description

Long, 5 to 6 inch needles grow in pairs, twisted and serrated.

Flower Description

Male and female flowers on the same tree in separate structures (monoecious) have no ornamental value.

Fruit Description

Cones are small, 2 to 3 inches long, light brown, stalkless, and typically found in pairs or singular.

Care Knowledge

Plant Care

Red pine prefers a dry, loose, sandy soil with a low pH and full sun. These trees are extremely cold tolerant.

Pests, Diseases, and Tolerances

The red pine is susceptible to sweeping winds and salt. Susceptible to Scleroderris canker (caused by the fungal pathogen Gremmeniella abietiana), various needlecast diseases, root rot diseases caused by Heterobasidion annosum and Armillaria mellea, redheaded pine sawfly (Neodiprion lecontei), pine tussock moth (Dasychira palgiata) and several species of wood-boring insects.

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