Longleaf Pine
By LYNN ARTZ, SANDY TEDDER and DAVID RODDENBERRY
Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) with its graceful, spreading crown is one of the tallest of southeastern pines. Reaching 125 feet, they attract perching raptors. Longleaf pines are the longest-lived and most fire-adapted of Florida’s pines. They are drought tolerant and wind resistant, too. Longleaf pine needles can be 14 inches long. Longleaf pine-wiregrass ecosystems support numerous native plants and wildlife. In times past, the tree’s gummy resin was used as tar to waterproof ships. The wood was used for railroad ties. Pines are a keystone genus that host diverse caterpillar species. Longleaf pines are easy to grow from seedlings in full sun and dry soil. The seedling will stay in the grass stage for a couple of years, then shoot up rapidly. Planted longleaf pines are dotted throughout Sopchoppy Depot Park.
