Not recommended north of Sunset zone 31 and USDA zone 7 (though Dove/Woolridge claim to zone 6b).
Stays in the so-called "grass stage" for its first several years, putting on zero meaningful height and therefore resembling an ornamental grass rather than a tree, as it puts most of its energy into growing its taproot. Once into the tree stage, grows rapidly and self-prunes older, lower branches.
Needles in threes (usually) and, true to the common name, the longest of any native pine.
Intolerant of heavy clay; prefers a deep soil, but ideal organic matter content is debated (Odenwald/Turner vs. Dove/Woolridge). Branch strength is also debated (Dove/Woolridge vs. UFL); NCSU and Odenwald/Turner assert less wind damage than other pines. Fire risk is also debated (NCSU vs. Odenwald/Turner).
Sources: Dove/Woolridge, Sunset, Dirr, UFL, NCSU, Cal Poly, Odenwald/Turner.
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