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Pinus torreyana
The Torrey Pine, Pinus torreyana, is the rarest pine species in the United States, an endangered species growing only in San Diego County and on one of the Channel Islands, endemic to the coastal sage and chaparral ecoregion in the U.S. state of California.
In its native habitat, Pinus torreyana is found in the Coastal sage scrub plant community, growing slowly in dry sandy soil. The root system is extensive. A tiny seedling may quickly send a taproot down 60 centimeters (24 in) seeking moisture and nutrients. A mature tree may have roots extending 75 meters (246 ft). Exposed trees battered by coastal winds are often twisted into beautiful sculptural shapes resembling large bonsai, and rarely exceed 12 m (39 ft) tall. (Wikipedia)
Spotted on Sep 21, 2012
Submitted on Nov 1, 2012
9 Comments
Thanks KarenP. Torrey Pines is such a great place to hike.
Great photo, Ava. Torrey Pines Guy Flemming trail is my favorite of all time trails. It's got everything. Cliffs, Ocean, Pines, sand stone patterns and great birds, flowers and insects. Fantastic place.
I LOVE this tree !
shekainah d. alaban, it looks like a bonsai because it has been sculpted and molded, but by the ocean wind, not by humans. It is a full size tree.
Bonsai?
Beautiful!
Seema, yes it's in the State Reserve just south of Del Mar and just North of La Jolla. If you're ever coming down this way, let me know and we can meet there and take a hike.
Argy Bee, thankfully you can't see the golf course from the Reserve!
Too many golf courses. Fascinating information.
Is it in Torrey Pine state park? have heard about its scenic beauty...