White Pines

Eastern white pine (sometimes called northern white pine or ship mast pine) is a beautiful, majestic tree. Its range includes much of southeastern Canada, as well as the upper midwest and northeastern US. Along the Appalachians it can be found as far south as northern Georgia.

Because these trees generally have nice straight trunks and can grow to a height of 150 feet, vast stands of virgin white pine were heavily logged for use as masts on sailing ships in Colonial times. Left undisturbed, they can live 450 years or more.

I’m very familiar with white pine as it’s quite common throughout New York State, particularly in the Adirondacks. Artistically speaking, it’s a wonderful tree to paint. Mature specimens grow taller than any surrounding species, which allows the wind to sculpt them into very unique individuals. White pines growing on ridgelines or other unsheltered locations will typically lean and develop a lopsided profile, with the bulk of their branches on the leeward side of the tree. Their long needles, bundled in fives, catch the breeze and produce a soft soothing whisper – but you have to be mindful enough to hear it.