Pinus flexilis
,
Coniferous
Origin:
Rocky Mountains, western U.S., Kimball County, Nebraska
Limber pine is a medium-sized evergreen native to the Rocky Mountains from Canada to New Mexico where it’s typically found at elevations
of 5,000 to 12,000 feet, often reaching the tree line. A few disjunct stands reach out on to the western High Plains including the
Pine Bluffs area of western Kimball County, making it one of only two pine species native to the state, the other being Ponderosa
pine.
Where To Grow
As with most tree species, limber pine does best in moist, well-drained soils. However, the species is quite adaptable to a wide range
of conditions including dry and infertile, rocky soils. It forms a large taproot and is difficult to transplant once established in the
landscape. Limber pine does not perform well in high humidity, heavy clay soils, or in heavily-irrigated lawns. It also prefers some
air circulation around its canopy, thus should not be planted in extremely tight groups. It can be grown across the state but is best
suited to the western half of Nebraska.
Suitable to plant throughout the state, but it is more successful in western Nebraska.
Size at Maturity
Tree Height
Tree Spread
35-60'
25-40'
Wildlife Benefits
The large, wingless seeds of limber pine have high energy content and provide critical food for rodents and a wide-variety of birds, many
of which cache the seeds for later use. Squirrels, flickers, and mountain bluebirds often nest in the trees.
Additional Considerations
Limber pine is generally considered a low-maintenance tree with few problems. Its most dangerous enemy is white pine blister rust which
is a bark disease that is often fatal. Currants and gooseberries are the alternate host for the disease and should not be planted in
areas where limber pines are under attack.
Related species
Limber pine is part of the white pine group and several related species are grown in Nebraska (see summary under eastern white pine).
Southwestern white pine (Pinus strobiformis) is perhaps the most interchangeable cousin. It’s a southwest US
native of lower elevations growing up to 50’ tall and 30’ wide. It’s more heat tolerant than limber pine.
A variety called ‘Vanderwolf’s Pyramid’ limber pine is fairly common in the nursery trade and is often sold and
planted in Nebraska. However, it’s probably not a true limber pine and is actually derived from other species, possibly Pinus
strobiformis or Pinus reflexa. It is not as cold hardy as limber pine and sometimes suffers winter burn in Nebraska.
Interesting Facts
Both the common and scientific names are derived from its highly flexible branches which evolved to withstand heavy snow and wind loads.
Additional Images
