Pine needles grow in clusters of two, three, five, or occasionally seven needles on twigs. Pine trees are identified by the number of needles in each bundle (farcical). The length of pine needles varies.
Pine trees are common across North America. There are over 100 species. They are related to other conifers like firs, cedars and spruces. Loblolly pines, which grow to 90 feet tall, are common in the Southeastern United States. Dark green needles, about eight inches long, grow in bundles of three.
Go here to learn more about Loblolly pines and view the following video full screen.
Because pine trees grow tall and straight, their wood is used for a variety of purposes such as furniture, flooring, and construction. Paper is also made from pine wood pulp. In the South, gardens are covered with pine straw mulch. Pine seeds are a food source for squirrels, woodpeckers, and raccoons. Go here to view full screen.
How do you tell the difference between a pine, fir, or spruce? Go here to view full screen. When you hike with your family, identify the types of evergreens along your path.
Do evergreens ever lose their needles? Yes, they just don’t lose them all at once like deciduous trees.
Favorite Books about Evergreen Trees
Go here to watch Mrs. Willowby’s Christmas Tree full screen. Sequence the events.
Christmas Farm: “This lovely tale celebrates intergenerational friendship and determination, growth and nature, and the joy of the holiday season.” —School Library Journal
The Christmas Cobwebs: On Christmas morning, the poor shoemaker and his wife awaken to a shimmering surprise hanging from their tree.
A story of Gratitude: The Littlest Christmas Tree. Go here to view full screen.