ExplorePlants

Jack pine

Pinus banksiana

The Jack pine is a tall tree that grows in forests. It has long, slender needles and produces cones that can stay on the tree for many years. This tree is important for many animals and helps keep the forest healthy.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Jack pine is an evergreen conifer often appearing irregularly shaped or scraggly. It has short, stiff, twisted, yellow-green needles growing in pairs. Its distinctive light brown cones are often curved, pointed, and remain tightly closed on branches for years.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassPinopsidaOrderPinalesFamilyPinaceaeGenusPinus
Jack pine
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Jack pine

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Its wood is used for pulpwood, making paper products we use daily.

Jack pines can live for over 150 years in harsh northern climates!

The Kirtland's Warbler bird absolutely needs young Jack pines to nest.

Young Jack pines can grow incredibly fast after a wildfire sweeps through.

Special abilities

Ability

Fire Starter Friend

Jack pine has special cones that need the heat from a forest fire to open and release their seeds, helping new trees grow quickly.

Ability

Tough Soil Survivor

Jack pine can grow in very poor, sandy, or rocky soils where many other trees struggle, making it a resilient pioneer.

Measurements & details

Height
1000-2500 cm
Spread
300-500 cm
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Wind

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Be careful around trees; don't climb too high and watch for falling branches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Jack pine?

1000-2500 cm

How wide does Jack pine spread?

300-500 cm

Is Jack pine edible?

Yes

Is Jack pine toxic?

None

What is Jack pine's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Jack pine pollinated?

Wind

Where is Jack pine usually found?

Forests

Snap Map

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Recent Snaps

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Where to spot

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