Facts about Loblolly Pine Trees

Have you ever wondered what kind of trees are in your yard? Or maybe someone asked you about a certain tree in your yard, and you didn’t have an answer. Don’t worry! We’re helping you learn more about some of Mississippi’s trees this year. Each month, we’ll spotlight a different tree you’ll likely see in your community. 

Our first tree is an evergreen conifer––the loblolly pine! Also known as the Arkansas pine or old-field pine, the loblolly is an important tree in our state because it is grown and used for lumber and paper. Did you know that forestry is Mississippi’s third most valuable agricultural industry?

Loblolly pines are fast growing trees. They can grow more than three feet each year and grow to be around 125 feet tall. Their trunks usually reach 2 feet in diameter and can occasionally grow 4–5 feet in diameter.

Here are some key characteristics of loblolly pines:

• Leaves: Loblolly pines have dark green needles that are grouped into bundles of three and are around 6-9 inches long.
• Bark: The bark of loblolly pines varies with tree age, sometimes they can be reddish-brown, and others are nearly black in color. The bark’s shape is large, flat, and rectangular. 
• Cones: Loblolly pines produce cones that typically take two years to fully mature. The oval-shaped cones are reddish-brown in color and are around 3–6 inches long. They also have prickles on the tip of each scale!
• Habitat: Native to the southeastern United States, the loblolly pine is a very adaptable tree and can grow in a variety of places!

For more resources, check out our blog post on simple tips to help you identify trees and MSU Extension Publication 146, “Know Your Trees.” 

If you have any questions about trees at your home, remember your Extension agent is a great person to contact for answers!