Pinus coulteri

Common Name: Coulter Pine

Description: The Coulter Pine (Pinus coulteri), also known as the Big-cone Pine, is a substantial evergreen conifer native to the coastal mountains of Southern California and northern Baja California. Mature trees typically reach heights of 10 to 24 meters, with trunk diameters up to 1 meter. The tree's bark is dark gray-brown to near black, deeply furrowed, and the crown is pyramidal, varying from dense to open depending on the site. Its needles are arranged in bundles of three, measuring 15 to 30 centimeters in length, and exhibit a glaucous gray-green color. A distinctive feature of the Coulter Pine is its large, spiny cones, which are 20 to 40 centimeters long and can weigh up to 2 to 5 kilograms when fresh. These heavy cones have earned the nickname "widowmakers" due to the potential hazard they pose when falling. The species thrives on dry, rocky slopes, flats, and ridges, often in chaparral or transitional oak-pine woodlands, at elevations ranging from 300 to 2,100 meters. While it is adapted to Mediterranean climates with infrequent winter rains and dry summers, its cultivation in Melbourne requires well-drained soils and protection from excessive moisture. The Coulter Pine is valued for its ornamental qualities, particularly its impressive cones and attractive foliage. However, due to its size and specific growing conditions, it is best suited for larger landscapes and should be planted away from areas where falling cones may pose a risk.

Form:

• Tree - Large

Mature Size:

• Height: 10–24 meters
• Width: Up to 1 meter trunk diameter

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Does not flower

Flower Colour:

• Not applicable

Key Attributes:

• Evergreen foliage
• Produces large, heavy cones
• Drought-tolerant once established
• Suitable for large landscapes
• Ornamental value

Toxicity:

• No known toxicity to humans or animals

Companion Plants:

• Coastal Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia)
• California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum)
• Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)
• Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.)
• Sagebrush (Artemisia californica)