Willamette Valley Ponderosa Pine

Willamette Valley ponderosa pine is a tall conifer native to the Willamette Valley. It is closely related to the more widespread ponderosa pine, but is tolerant of wet, even seasonally inundated soils. It can soar to heights of over 200 feet, making it one of the tallest pines. All ponderosas are characterized by long needles in bundles of three, large woody cones with outward-pointing prickles, and thick, orange-brown bark that becomes deeply furrowed with age. Ecologically, this pine is a key species in lowland and upland forests west of the Cascades, providing habitat and food for birds, mammals, and insects, while its fire-resistant bark allows it to thrive in fire-adapted ecosystems. It is tolerant to drought and wet and casts only light shade, making it a resilient option for west-side plantings.