Slash Pine

Slash pine (*Pinus elliottii*) is a southeastern U.S. conifer with long evergreen needles, a tall trunk and a crown that broadens with age. [UF/IFAS](https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST463/pdf) gives typical landscape dimensions of 75–100 feet tall and 35–50 feet wide. [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/pinus-elliottii/) describes rapid growth and tolerance of sandy, acidic sites near lowlands and watercourses. ## Site and care Provide sun to partial shade, acidic soil and good drainage. North Carolina Extension lists USDA zones 8–11 and notes that high-pH soil or irrigation water can cause chlorosis. Allow for falling lower limbs, mature canopy size and wind exposure. Manage needles, cones and dead branches, and monitor rust and root problems. ## Separate source assessments The [2014–15 Tasmania Fire Service guide](https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/landcaretas/pages/101/attachments/original/1466562095/140835_TFSFireResistingPlants_2014_15.pdf?1466562095=) classifies Pinus elliottii as High Flammability and advises avoiding it in both the Building Protection Zone and Fuel Modified Zone. North Carolina Extension separately displays a low-flammability rating. These sources disagree; the Tasmania tag records only the TFS assessment. Neither the conflicting rating nor a plant's survival after fire should replace local placement and maintenance guidance.