Pinus muricata, commonly referred to as bishop pine, is a species of evergreen coniferous tree that belongs to the Pinaceae family. It is native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon in the United States.
Bishop pine typically grows to a height of 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet), with a distinct pyramidal crown and stout branches. The tree's bark is thick, rough, and gray-brown in color, contributing to its resilience against wildfires. The needles of P. muricata are long and slender, usually occurring in bundles of two, and are characterized by their blue-green hue.
This species is dioecious, meaning individual trees are either male or female. The male cones are small and yellow, while the female cones are larger and reddish-brown, maturing over two years. The cones have prickles or spines on their scales (hence the species name "muricata"), providing them with protection against predators.
Pinus muricata is well-adapted to its coastal habitat and thrives in a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky substrates. It is a hardy tree with good tolerance to salt spray and strong winds, hence it is often found in coastal sand dunes and bluffs.
Bishop pine forests provide valuable habitat for various bird species, including the endangered marbled murrelet, as well as other wildlife such as squirrels and rabbits. The tree's wood is not extensively used due to its relatively small size, but it is occasionally utilized for pulpwood or small-scale woodworking projects.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore the natural habitats of Pinus muricata, as it plays an essential role in the coastal ecosystems of California and
