Pitch Pine

The bark of young trunks and branches of this tree is broken into reddish-brown scales. On older trunks these plate-like scales become flat-topped ridges separated by deep fissures. In 1964, a 126-foot tall specimen was recorded in Hocking County. The Pitch Pine grows on dry ridges and slopes. This native of northeastern United States and adjacent parts of Canada is well known for its ability to survive fires. In Ohio its natural range is limited to the Allegheny Plateau region of the southeastern part of the state. Since Pitch Pine trees will grow in dry, rocky soil of otherwise barren land, they often are used for reforestation where few other trees will grow. Wood from this tree is too poor in quality for use in construction or furniture, although it sometimes is used for rough lumber. Its main use is for fuel and making charcoal.