(Pinus ponderosa)

Family: Pinaceae

Description
Large to very large tree with broad, open conical crown of spreading branches. Height is 60–130 ft. (18–39 m). Diameter is 2.2–4 ft. (0.8–1.2 m), sometimes larger. Needles are usually two or three in a bundle, generally 4–8 in. (10–20 cm) long. They are stout, stiff and dark green. Bark is blackish, rough and furrowed into ridges. Cones are 2–6 in. (5–15 cm) long. Opening and shedding at maturity, leaving a few cone-scales on twig.

Habitat
Mostly in mountains in pure stands, forming extensive forests. Also in mixed coniferous forests. Native to New Mexico.

Discussion
This is the most widely distributed and common pine in North America. This valuable timber tree is the most commercially important western pine. Its lumber is especially suited for window frames and panel doors. Quail, nutcrackers, squirrels and many other kinds of wildlife consume the seeds. Chipmunks store them in their caches, thus aiding dispersal.