Pinus radiata

RHS Plant Profile
Monterey pine

Other common names

radiata pine

Synonyms

Pinus insignis

Conifers Trees

A vigorous evergreen conifer making a large tree to 30m or more, developing a broad rounded crown with maturity. Dense dark green needles in threes, and persistent, conical-ovoid cones to 15cm in length

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

wider than 8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
wider than 8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
North–facing or 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
Correct
Plant Range
USA (California), Mexico

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil. Suitable for coastal areas. Fast growing. See Trees: buying and planting specimens

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to adelgids, conifer aphid, sawfly larvae, and pine shoot moth

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases