Scotch Pine
Description:
Scotch or Scots pine is
an introduced species which has been widely planted for the purpose of producing
Christmas trees. It is an extremely hardy species which is adaptable to a wide
variety of soils and sites. As a Christmas tree, it is known for its dark green
foliage and stiff branches which are well suited for decorating with both light
and heavy ornaments. It has excellent needle retention characteristics and holds
up well throughout harvest, shipping and display.
The needles of Scotch pine are produced in bundles of two. They are variable in length, ranging from slightly over 1-inch for some varieties to nearly 3-inches for others. Color is likewise variable with bright green characteristic of a few varieties to dark green to bluish tones more prominent in others.
(Picture from National Christmas Tree Association)