Leaf Identification
The Loblolly Pine is an evergreen meaning the leaves stay on all year long. Like all pines (Pinus), the leaves are acicular (needle-like). Each leaf is usually light green and 6″ to 9″ long. There are typically three leaves in each fascicle (bundle).
Twig and Bud Identification
The Loblolly Pine’s twigs are typically orange brown and stout. The buds are ovoid-shaped and reddish-brown with scales.
Bark Identification
The bark of the Loblolly Pine change with age. Young trees are red-brown and have dark gray scales. As it ages, it forms ridges and furrow with rounded plates. Very old trees develop red-brown, flat plates.
Cone Identification
The mature cone of the Loblolly Pine is stalkless and reddish-brown. It is ovoid- to cylindrical-shaped and 3″ to 6″ long. The staminate cones are very long and cylindrical. They are also red to bright yellow and cluster at branch tips. The ovulate cones are yellow to purple.