Characteristics of Pine Trees

Pine trees are widespread and grow in many types of soil and climates. Although pine trees originally were native to Europe and Asia, settlers introduced them to America. Although the fine details vary from one type of pine tree to another, the essential characteristics of all pine trees are similar.

Needles

Pine trees do not have leaf shapes like other types of trees; they have needles. Needles technically are leaves, but they are thin, pointed and range from one inch long to over five inches long. The name "needle" comes from the leaves' shape and size, which is similar to a sewing needle. Pine tree needles range in color from a dark green to a light greenish blue. Pine needles grow in clusters of up to five on a slender branch that grows from the main trunk.

Bark

The bark on a pine tree is smooth when the tree is young, but thickens and develops cracks as it ages. The thick bark of an older tree makes it resistant to weather and fire. A pine tree generally has greenish brown bark when it is young that darkens and hardens as the tree grows older. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, the Scotch pine's bark matures to a red/brown color as it ages, which distinguishes it from other pine trees.

Cones

Pine trees do not produce fruit. They produce cones that contain seeds and drop to the ground before opening. This prevents seeds from being caught in the tangle of needles.

Evergreen

Pine trees are evergreens, meaning they do not shed their needles in the winter. They also do not change colors in the fall as other types of trees do, staying green throughout the year.