Native Plant Database

Pinus radiata D. Don

Monterey pine

Pinaceae (Pine Family)

USDA Symbol: PIRA2

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

Symmetrical or flat-topped with age, this fast-growing pine has deep, glossly-green needles; dark, red-brown bark and persistent cones. Tree with straight trunk, narrow, irregular, open crown, and many closed cones grouped in rings. Grows from 40-70 ft. in height.

Although rare in its native California, Monterey Pine is one of the worlds most valuable pines and is the most common commercially planted one in the southern hemisphere (where pines are not native), especially in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, and South Africa. Like those of Knobcone and Bishop pines, the cones of Monterey Pine remain closed until opened by the heat of a forest fire; the abundant seeds are then discharged and begin a new forest. The cones may also burst open in hot weather with a snapping sound.