Don Smith Red Pine

Don Smith Red Pine (Pinus resinosa 'Don Smith')

Don Smith Red Pine (Pinus resinosa 'Don Smith') is a unique, compact cultivar of the native Red Pine known for its strong central leader, bushy branching, and striking dark green needles. This selection is ideal for collectors or gardeners seeking a bold, upright pine with a rugged appearance and manageable size.

Distinctive Features

'Don Smith' is slower-growing than the species, forming a broadly conical to upright shape with densely packed branches and thick, lustrous needles. The needles are slightly longer than average and appear in tufts, giving the tree a full and robust appearance. Over time, it may reach 10 to 20 feet tall, depending on conditions, with a sturdy and architectural silhouette.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic
• Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7

Ideal Uses

• Specimen in native or conifer gardens
• Screening or structural background planting
• Naturalized or woodland edge plantings
• Focal point in rugged or mountain-themed landscapes
• Collector gardens featuring North American species

Low Maintenance Care

• Minimal pruning needed; maintain strong leader
• Water regularly until well-established
• Mulch to protect root zone in dry sites
• Fertilize sparingly in early spring
• Tolerates cold, wind, and nutrient-poor soils

Why Choose Don Smith Red Pine

• Compact form of a native North American pine
• Dense branching and strong year-round structure
• Adaptable to poor soils and cold climates
• Great choice for naturalized landscapes
• Provides a bold evergreen focal point with rustic appeal

Don Smith Red Pine offers resilience and visual strength, serving as a dependable evergreen focal point for wild-inspired or structured plantings alike.