Pinus contorta 'Chief Joseph'

RHS Plant Profile
lodgepole pine 'Chief Joseph'
Award of Garden Merit
Conifers

A dwarf, slow-growing conifer with a broadly conical outline. Needles 4-5cm long are borne in pairs, green in summer and autumn turning brilliant yellow in winter and spring

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Pinaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Pinus can be shrubs or large, evergreen trees, some species with attractive bark, developing an irregular outline with age and bearing long needle-like leaves in bundles of 2, 3 or 5; conspicuous cones may fall or remain on the tree for years
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in very well drained, acid or neutral soil. See conifer cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to adelgids, conifer aphids, pine sawflies and pine shoot moth

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases