Torrey pine

Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana) is a rare and endangered species of pine tree native to the coastal areas of southern California and on Santa Rosa Island. It is the rarest pine species in the United States and is an important part of the chaparral and woodlands ecoregion.

Description

The Torrey Pine grows to a height of 8–15 meters (26–49 ft), with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters (4.9 ft). The bark is thick and furrowed. The leaves are needle-like, in bundles of five, and are 20–30 cm (7.9–11.8 in) long. The cones are ovoid, 10–15 cm (3.9–5.9 in) long, and have scales with a sharp spine at the apex.

Distribution and habitat

The Torrey Pine is endemic to the coastal sage and chaparral ecoregion in southern California, where it is found in a few small, isolated populations. The largest population is in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego. A smaller population exists on Santa Rosa Island, part of the Channel Islands of California. The tree grows in sandy soil, often in the company of coastal sage scrub vegetation.

Conservation

The Torrey Pine is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main threats to the species are urban development, fire, and climate change. Conservation efforts include habitat protection and restoration, as well as ex situ conservation in botanical gardens.

Uses

The wood of the Torrey Pine is used for construction and carpentry. The seeds are edible and were used as a food source by the indigenous Kumeyaay people of southern California.

See also

• List of California native plants
• List of endangered species

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