Pine

Pollen Type: Tree

Cross-Reactivity: Other Pines

HS Allergy Extract: Pine Mix

Family: Pinaceae

Genus/Species: Pinus ponderosa, contorta

Common Names: Pine

Locations: Mountainous regions in the Western United States; sometimes near riverbeds outside this region.

Distribution: Throughout the United States.

Pollination Method: Wind-pollinated

Pollinating Period: Spring

Description: Ponderosa Pine is native to the mountainous regions of western North America and is the most widely distributed pine species. It’s a large cone-bearing evergreen pine, growing to 200’ tall. Its unique bark helps distinguish it from other species. Younger trees have blackish-brown bark; mature trees have yellow to orange-red bark with broad plates and black crevices. Ponderosa pine trees are monoecious, meaning that each tree produces both male and female cones. Male cones typically grow on lower branches and fall off shortly after they release their pollen in early summer. Female cones typically grow on higher branches and contain the seeds. Female pine cones are easily recognized and are often used as Christmas decorations.

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