How to Identify the Limber Pine

Leaf Identification

The Limber Pine has 3 1/2″ long, short-stalked needles that are in bundles of 5. They are a dark green to bluish green and stay attached all year long.

  • Leaves of Arbor Walk #72
  • Newly Sprouted Leaves of Arbor Walk #72
  • Leaves (Fall) of Arbor Walk #72

Twig and Bud Identification

The twig is tan-brown, with budding leaves whorled around the twig.

  • Twig of Arbor Walk #72

Bark Identification

The Limber Pine has gray bark, mostly smooth but with some vertical gashing.

  • Bark of Arbor Walk #72

Cone Identification

The cones of the Limber Pine are brown and can be as long as 8″. The staminate cones are yellow-brown and clustered at the twig end.

  • Staminate Cones of Arbor Walk #72
  • Immature Cones of Arbor Walk #72

‘Vanderwolf Pyramid’ Identification

The ‘Vanderwolf Pyramid’ cultivar grows faster than the traditional tree. As the name suggests, it also has a more pyramidal shape than wild Limber Pines.