Loblolly Pine is an abundant large tree of all but the driest areas -- probably the most common tree in the eastern half of North Carolina. It frequently colonizes old fields.

Durham Co., NC 12/4/05.

The leaves are about 15-20 cm long and usually have 3-4 needles in a bundle.

Male cones open in early April, releasing huge clouds of yellow pollen, literally covering every surface in the southeastern United States.

Durham Co., NC 4/11/09.

Female Loblolly Pine cones are larger than those of Shortleaf and Virginia, smaller than those of Longleaf. They are armed with stout prickles.

Granville Co., NC 4/27/08.

Granville Co., NC 4/27/08.

Granville Co., NC 4/27/08.

Large tree.

Durham, NC 9/9/06.

The bark on medium-sized trees is dark gray-brown, deeply furrowed, and blocky.

Durham Co., NC 12/4/05.

Bark of a large tree.

Orange Co., NC 4/12/08.

Bark of a large tree.

Orange Co., NC 4/12/08.