PINION PINE (PINYON)

Plant Name: Pinyon Pine
Scientific Name: Pinus edulis — Pinyon Pine, Colorado Pinyon, Two-Needle Pinyon
Mature Height: 15–35 ft
Mature Spread: 10–20 ft
Growth Rate: Slow (2–6 in/year)
Sun: Full sun
Water: Low; ~5–10 gal/week while establishing, then water deeply during extended drought once established; avoid overwatering
Foliage: Short, stiff, blue-green to dark green needles, usually in pairs; evergreen
Fall Color: Remains blue-green to dark green
Flower Color: Inconspicuous; yellowish male pollen cones and small reddish female cones
Bloom Time: Spring
Fruit: Rounded, reddish-brown cones approximately 1–2 in. long, containing edible pine nuts
Hardiness Zones: 4–8 (−30°F to 20°F)
Features: Southwestern native; exceptionally drought tolerant once established; edible pine nuts; slow-growing; long-lived; well adapted to rocky, alkaline soils; excellent native landscape tree
Additional Facts: Pinyon Pine is native to the Southwest and naturally thrives in dry, rocky environments. It develops a broad, rounded crown with age and is exceptionally well adapted to the climate of the Southwest.