Mature Height: Slash pine (Pinus elliottii) will reach 100 feet at maturity.

Growth Rate: This species grows fast (more than 2 feet per year).

Ornamental Features: The needles come in pairs or threes, are dark green and stiff. The shiny brown cones are 3 to 6 inches long. The tree has a dense, rounded crown.

Landscape Use: Slash pine is usually planted for quick shade and erosion control. This tree is moderately tolerant of adverse (soil and environment) conditions. It does grow on sandy soils that contain a poorly drained hardpan or in some wet areas.

Problems: Slash pine is very susceptible to fusiform rust. Trees that develop galls in the main stem are prone to breakage and early mortality.