Return to Native Trees of the Southern Rocky Mountains

Whitebark pine grows in the quadrant of Wyoming west and north of Lander, in the Wind River Mountains, Absarokas, Tetons, and the Yellowstone region. Whitebark pine is similar to Limber Pine both in size, appearance, and in its role in the forest. Like Limber pine, it generally grows in the high forests, often in rocky and windy locations. The broughs are flexible, tough, and easy to bend into circles. This flexibility lets the tree live in windy conditions without damage.

Whitebark cones are less than 3 inches long and dark purple, whereas Limber pine cones are longer than 3 inches and light or pale brown. Its pine seeds are edible, large and wingless like Limber pine seeds. Many animals and birds depend on these seeds for nutrition.

Grizzly bears of Yellowstone eat large amounts of Whitebark pine seeds in the fall to accumulate fat reserves for winter. In years when Whitebark pine seeds are few, as in 1993, 1994, and 1995, the grizzlies seek food in other places, including tourist backpacks. Pinus albicaulis .

Identifying features of Whitebark pine

Needles

Needles in bundles of five; 1 to 2 3/4 inches long.

Cones

1 1/2 to 3 inches long, oval, purplish brown, and serotinous - opens when heated by a forest fire..

Bark

Bark on young trees is creamy white.