Description

Pinus nigra ‘Oregon Green’ is a handsome, dense, upright conifer forming a narrow pyramidal outline with strong, layered branches and glossy, deep green needles held in pairs. More compact than the species, it offers a tailored, architectural look that fits well in modest gardens while still providing bold, year‑round presence. Tough and adaptable, it tolerates urban conditions, wind, and coastal exposure, and becomes notably drought tolerant after establishment.

Suggested Uses

Plant Details

• Botanical NamePinus Nigra 'oregon Green'
• Common NamePinus Nigra 'oregon Green'
• Size & GrowthTypically 15–25 ft tall and 10–15 ft wide in 10–15 years; eventually 25–30+ ft. Dense, upright pyramidal habit.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 4–7 (reliable cold hardiness; heat and wind tolerant once established).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen needles in pairs, 3–6 in long, stiff and lustrous deep green, dense along branches.
• Bloom TimeNon‑flowering; produces inconspicuous pollen cones in spring and woody seed cones thereafter.
• Growth RateModerate; often 8–12 in of new candle growth per year under good conditions.
• Light RequirementsFull sun (6+ hours direct). Best density and form in open exposure; tolerates light shade in hot summers.
• Attracts PollinatorsLow; wind‑pollinated and not a nectar source. Provides shelter/cover for birds and beneficial wildlife.
• Indoor FriendlyNo. Outdoor landscape tree only; requires full sun and seasonal temperature swings.
• Container FriendlyPossible in a large container for several years while young; best performance long‑term in the ground with good drainage.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer resistant once established; occasional browsing of soft spring candles is possible.
• Pet WarningNon‑toxic to cats and dogs; ingesting needles may cause mild GI upset. Avoid allowing pets to chew resinous twigs/needles.
• FragrantLight resinous, piney scent from needles and bark when warmed or crushed.
• Cut FlowerNot a cut flower; boughs and cones are useful in winter arrangements and wreaths.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Juniperus, Lavandula, Cistus, Salvia yangii (Perovskia), Festuca glauca, Sedum, Achillea, Cotoneaster, Berberis, compact Picea and Thuja.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in early spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× the width of the root ball, same depth. Set the root flare at or slightly above grade, remove wrapping/wire, backfill with native soil, water to settle, and mulch 2–3 in (keep mulch off trunk).
• Soil MoistureEven moisture the first 1–2 years; then water deeply but infrequently. Allow the top 2–3 in of soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogged conditions.
• Soil TypeWell‑drained sands or loams; tolerates rocky and slightly alkaline soils better than many pines. Ideal pH slightly acidic to neutral; excellent drainage is essential.
• HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is fine. Ensure good air circulation; avoid persistently wet foliage in cramped sites to reduce disease pressure.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. In late spring, pinch back new candles by 1/3–1/2 to control size and increase density. Do structural pruning in late winter; avoid cutting into old, bare wood.
• Winter CareHardy in Zones 4–7. Water deeply before ground freeze the first year. In exposed sites, a windbreak or burlap wrap can protect new plantings; established trees tolerate wind and salt well.
• Planting DepthSet the root flare level with the surrounding soil or 1–2 in above on heavy soils. Do not bury the trunk; avoid piling mulch against bark.
• FertilizationNot a heavy feeder. Apply a light rate of balanced, slow‑release fertilizer in early spring only if a soil test indicates a need. Over‑fertilizing can reduce hardiness.
• Special CarePrioritize drainage and sun. Monitor young trees for Diplodia tip blight or needle cast; remove infected material and improve airflow. Stake only if necessary the first year; remove stakes promptly.