Twisted White Pine Trees: How to Grow Twisted White Pines Growing in the Landscape
One variety of eastern white pine that has many appealing characteristics is called contorted white pine. The distinctively twisted nature of the branches and needles is its greatest claim to fame. Continue reading for more details on contorted white pines, including advice on cultivating twisted-growth varieties.
Information on White Pine That Has Twisted
Many characteristics of the native needled evergreen eastern white pine (Pinus strobus ‘Contorta’ or ‘Torulosa’) are also present in contorted white pine trees. Both can live for over a century and grow rather quickly. Twisted white pine trees lack the height of eastern white pine trees, which can reach up to 200 feet (61 meters) in the wild and up to 80 feet (24 meters) in cultivation. Information on twisted white pine indicates that the maximum height of this cultivar is approximately 40 feet (12 meters). On Contorta, the evergreen needles grow in clusters of five. Each needle is about 4 inches (10 cm) long, thin, and twisted. To the touch, they are supple. Contrary to female cones, male cones are yellow. Each reaches a maximum length of 15 cm (6 inches). White pine trees with twisted branches are striking. The trees have a rounded shape and a strong central leader. They grow low canopies that only allow for about 4 feet (1 meter) of clearance below them. Twisted white pines give a backyard landscape a soft, delicate texture. They are therefore a well-liked accent element for gardens.
Expanding Swollen White Pine Trees
If you live in a cold climate and are considering growing twisted white pine trees, don’t worry. Plant hardiness zone 3 of the USDA is reached by twisted white pine trees. On the other hand, twisted-growth white pines require a sunny spot to grow. Make sure you have adequate space because the tree can spread up to 30 feet (9 meters) if left unchecked. Examine the soil as well. Growing twisted white pine in acidic soil is much simpler than in alkaline soil, which can lead to yellowing foliage. Care for a contorted white pine tree won’t be too much if you planted it in the right spot. Twisted white pine trees grow well in both wet and dry environments. Plant the tree, however, in a wind-sheltered area for optimal care. Pruning contorta is only necessary occasionally. Don’t cut too deeply into the canopy when pruning; just cut back new growth. Naturally, part of caring for twisted white pines involves pruning off any overgrowth.
