
Austrian Pine
Pinus nigra 'Oregon Green'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
300 inches
Width
180 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived evergreen tree
Native To
Southern Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Pinus nigra is a large, hardy evergreen conifer native to Europe, known for its long, dark green needles and tolerance of difficult urban and coastal conditions. 'Oregon Green' is a semi-dwarf cultivar with a distinctive, irregular but upright form. It features rich, dark green needles and prominent white 'candles' (new growth) in spring, creating a striking contrast.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site in full sun with well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
- Place the tree in the hole, ensuring it is straight.
- The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
- Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to remove air pockets.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
Pro Tip
To maintain a denser, more compact form, snap the new spring 'candles' in half before the needles expand.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for best growth and form.
- Ensure excellent drainage; pines hate wet feet.
- Water deeply but infrequently once established.
- Allow plenty of room for its mature size.
Don't
- Do not plant in shady or waterlogged locations.
- Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to weak growth.
- Don't prune back into old wood; pines do not regrow from it.
- Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Austrian Pine questions
What zones can Austrian Pine grow in?
Austrian Pine is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Austrian Pine deer resistant?
Yes — Austrian Pine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Austrian Pine need full sun?
Austrian Pine does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Austrian Pine drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Austrian Pine handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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