The Virginia Pine (pinus virginiana) or Scrub Pine (as it is often called) is the most common Pine in the Mid Atlantic region, growing wild from Long Island, New York to the coast of North Carolina inland through the mountains of Alabama and Tennessee. The typical life span is only an average of 65-90 years. The average height is only 30-60 feet tall - falling into the small/medium size range. Virginia Pine is monoecious, it is wind pollinated and primarily out crossing in nature (fertilized by others), though self-fertilization is possible.
Image Citation: Vern Wilkins, Indiana University, Bugwood.org
The Virginia Pine grows wildly on farmland and neglected properties, quickly popping up in our general area with ease, along ditches, wood lines and other less manicured areas. It does so well in reforesting abandoned and cut over lands that it has become a principal source of pulpwood and lumber in the southeast. It easily seeds itself in loose dirt, road banks and freshly disturbed soil. Virginia Pine seedlings are more tolerant of low soil moisture than most other Pines, though they may survive when moisture is low, their rate of growth is noticeably slower on these sites.
The Virginia pine's needles occur in pairs. They are twisted and range from 1.5 to 3" in length. They are relatively short when compared to those of other pines.The branches are stout and woody. The bark is typical for most pines. It forms plates that are reddish brown in color with shallow fissures or furrows. The bark has a coarse appearance. This tree responds well to trimming. It has also become one of the most popular choices for Christmas trees in the South.
Virginia Pine seeds are consumed by many birds and small mammals. These animals help spread the seeds by carrying them to new places. Twigs and needles are eaten by White-tailed Deer. Young Virginia Pines are good cover for animals, such as rabbits. Older wood is often softened by fungal decay providing excellent nesting sites for woodpeckers.
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