Lodgepole Pine

The lodgepole pine, pinus contorta (subspecies latifolia), is a very widespread tree in Wyoming.  It is nice to see green this time of year, and lodgepoles are the most prevalent species in the Medicine Bow National Forest.  The healthy trees that have survived the attacks of the mountain pine beetle provide a welcome break from all the brown, tan and white of winter.

I still haven't mastered the art of identifying tree species.  Steve Aitken on Finegardening.com has helpful tips on differentiating pine, spruce and fir trees:  " If a twig bears needles in groups of two, three, or five, you can safely call it a pine. If the twig carries its needles singly, it’s a good bet you’ve got a fir or a spruce. Pull off a needle, and roll it between your fingers. If it feels flat and doesn’t roll easily, it’s a fir. If the needle has four sides and, thus, rolls easily between your fingers, it’s a spruce."  My problem is that I don't remember these sort of rules when I am out in the woods!

I think I have all of these photos identified correctly (I hope).   Lodgepole pines have only two needles per bunch, which makes it a little easier, since it is the only paired needle tree around here.  Also, the upper branches often spread upwards, while the lower branches tilt downward.  This tree enjoys its sunlight and doesn't thrive in the shade.

 I tried to get pictures of various aged female cones to show the possible differences.  Lodgepole cones open in high temperatures, so this tree is often one of the first to return after forest fires.

The evergreen needles live an average of 4 to 6 years, but can be even older.   Here is a photo of the male pollen cones as well (but the pollen won't be shedding until the late spring).

Lodgepole pine bark is gray-brown and often flaky, but the timber is good.  The name 'lodgepole' comes from its formerly common use in tepee lodges.

Today, while cross-country skiing on the very limited snow available in the Pole Mountain area, squirrel activity was evident in the numerous nibbled-off cone branches scattering the forest floor.  Lodgepoles provide great habitat for wildlife.