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Pinus aristata
Bristlecone pine

Culture: Culture: The Bristlecone pine tolerates poor, dry, rocky soils with a wide pH range but requires good drainage. It does not tolerate shade or pollution. In its native range, this species occurs in extremely harsh conditions at the treeline, 8,000 - 11,000 feet in elevation. Some of the oldest specimens are extremely gnarled and twisted with trunk diameters of 4 feet.

This species has occasional pest problems typical of genus. It will not survive in poorly drained sites.

Usage: Suitable as a foundation or accent plant, or does well in rock or alpine gardens. It is most commonly used as an accent or "character pine" because of its picturesque habit.

 
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