Pinus balfouriana

Identification

Gallery

Description

Foxtail Pine is a slow growing, evergreen, conifer found at high elevations in the northern coast ranges and Sierra Nevada mountains. Pinus balfouriana is called Foxtail Pine because the internodal lengths are so small that all the needles are bunched up together at the end of the branches. It is good for containers and rock gardens as it grows naturally in harsh conditions with little water and nutrients available. At the Foxtail Pine's native elevation most precipitation comes in the form of snow which is inaccessible to the plant. It also is often found in rocky areas where there is very little soil available so it is often nutrient deprived. It is best grown at higher elevations. It resembles a bonsai in its growth habits and is often quite attractive. Foxtail Pine is a short pine, only about 45 ft tall at its highest. In most situations it is much shorter, stunted and contorted.