Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Specialized evergreen needles, bundled in fascicles of two
Shape
Linear, needle-like, slender and straight
Margin
Entire, smooth edges
Arrangement
Fascicles containing exactly two needles bound at the base by a persistent membranous sheath
Venation
Parallel venation with a single central resin canal running the length of the needle
Key Features
Needles strictly in bundles of two, measuring 4-6 inches long, dark green, and notably flexible enough to snap cleanly when sharply bent
Description
A majestic evergreen conifer featuring distinct reddish-brown scaly bark, an open and picturesque crown, and long, dark green needles grouped in pairs that snap cleanly when bent
Habitat
Well-drained sandy soils in boreal and northern mixed forests, often forming pure stands or growing alongside jack pine and white pine
Native Range
Native to northeastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba, and south through the Great Lakes region and northern New England
Notes
Northern Minnesota