What is special about ponderosa pine?

What is special about ponderosa pine?

It is the toughest pine introduced to Kansas with the greatest drought and alkaline tolerance. Although it may exceed 200 feet in height in its native range, Ponderosa pine reaches a height of 40 to 50 feet and a spread of 20 to 25 feet in Kansas. Its growth rate is often 12 to 18 inches per year.

How can you tell a ponderosa pine?

Ponderosa Pines are easily recognized by their tall, straight, thick trunks, clad in scaled, rusty-orange bark that has split into big plates. One can easily identify some trees by smelling their bark. Ponderosa Pine bark smells like vanilla or butterscotch.

Where do ponderosa pine trees grow?

The ponderosa pine, also known as the yellow pine, is one of the most widely distributed tree species in the West, growing from southern Canada into Mexico, and from Nebraska and Oklahoma all the way to the Pacific Coast.

What are ponderosa pine trees used for?

The clear wood is used for sashes, doors, blinds, moulding, paneling, interior woodwork, and built-in cases and cabinets. Low-grade lumber is used for boxes, crates and wood packaging. Knotty Ponderosa pine is also used for interior woodwork.

Is ponderosa pine poisonous to humans?

The needles of some pine trees, such as ponderosa pine, and other evergreens that are not actually pines, such as Norfolk Island pine, may be toxic to humans, livestock and other animals.

Is it safe to drink pine needle tea?

Pine needle tea has a mild, pleasant taste. Depending on the variety of pine needles use, it can also have notes of citrus. Is Pine Needle Tea Dangerous? It is generally considered safe, however pine needle tea should not be consumed if you are pregnant or nursing as is may cause a possible miscarriage.

Can you drink ponderosa pine needle tea?

Tea made from the needles is rich in Vitamin C but should only be taken in moderation. Large amounts of evergreen teas can be toxic. The inner bark can be eaten raw or cooked and it is best harvested in the spring.

How deep do pine tree roots go down?

How deep is the root system of a pine tree? Most pine tree root systems extend down to about 3 feet but can be much more profound in dry sandy soils. The roots’ function is to support the above-ground part of the tree and extracts water and nutrients from the earth.