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Pinus jeffreyi
Balf.
Jeffrey Pine
Pinaceae
Pinus jeffreyi is a coniferous tree in the family Pinaceae. It is found mostly in California, with some populations in Oregon and Baja California.
Description
Pinus jeffreyi is a relatively tall tree, growing up to 40, sometimes 60 m tall with a trunk that grows 1.2 to 2.5 m wide. It forms a conical to cylindrical crown; branches are thick and short, arching downwards, with leaves on the tips. Needles are straight, slightly twisted, and stiff, typically 15 to 25 cm in bundles of 3, sometimes 2. They are grayish green to bluish green, sometimes yellowish with twice as many bands (which are stomata) on the outer than inner faces, and they persist on the tree for around 4 to 5 years. Sheaths are typically 2 to 2.5 cm long, and are persistent. Buds are 1.5 to 2.5 cm long, and are not resinous. The bark is reddish brown, broken up into plates. Twigs are purplish brown, rough from the bases of the leaves and are hairless. Pollen cones are 2 to 3.5 cm, yellowish brown. Seed cones are typically 13 to 20 cm long, elongated egg-shaped, purplish green, ripening to brown. Cones have 135 to 150 scales that are paddle-shaped, with the face being diamond-shaped with a slender, concave prickle. These cones open widely to release their seeds and fall from the tree. Seeds are 9 to 12 mm long, with an easily detachable wing that is 18 to 25 mm long (Eckenwalder 2009).
The resin chemistry of Pinus jeffreyi differs from that of its close relative, the ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa). Reportedly, this species has resin that lacks 3-carene and limonene, making it smell pleasantly fruity and sweet, while Pinus ponderosa has a more turpentine-like odor (Eckenwalder 2009).
The resin chemistry of Pinus jeffreyi differs from that of its close relative, the ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa). Reportedly, this species has resin that lacks 3-carene and limonene, making it smell pleasantly fruity and sweet, while Pinus ponderosa has a more turpentine-like odor (Eckenwalder 2009).
Uses
Note: Please see the disclaimer regarding any information about medical or edible uses.
The wood of Pinus jeffreyi is similar to Pinus ponderosa, an important timber tree, and is used similarly (Farjon 2013). It may be cultivated occasionally in parks or arboreta. It requires well-drained soil, sun, and plenty of space. It grows in USDA zones 5 to 7 (MBG).
Distribution
Pinus jeffreyi grows alongside other conifers in mountains at high altitudes of 1500 to 2500 (occasionally higher or lower). It is native to southwestern Oregon, California, and Baja California (Eckenwalder 2009).
Status
Pinus jeffreyi is listed on the IUCN Red List as “Least Concern”. It is quite common and widespread, and its population does not appear to be declining. Urban air pollution may pose a threat, but this should be studied more closely (Farjon 2013).
References
Eckenwalder, J. E. 2009. Conifers of the world: the complete reference. Portland: Timber Press.
Farjon, A. 2013. Pinus jeffreyi. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T42371A2975870.en.
MBG (Missouri Botanical Garden), Pinus jeffreyi. Plant Finder. [accessed 2021 May 26]. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284997
Farjon, A. 2013. Pinus jeffreyi. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T42371A2975870.en.
MBG (Missouri Botanical Garden), Pinus jeffreyi. Plant Finder. [accessed 2021 May 26]. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284997
Description
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