Dade County Slash Pine

The Dade County Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii var. densa) is a native tree that ranges from central Florida down to the Florida Keys. Slash pines are the foundational species of the Pine Rocklands, meaning they have a strong role in structuring the community. They are much taller than broad, standing at around 30 to 50 feet in height. Their leaves are needle-shaped and occur in bundles of 2's or 3's close to the crown of the tree. Slash pines shed their needles to incite fires; a much-needed element in its reproduction cycle. One can usually find dried up needles and fallen female cones surrounding the base of the tree. Slash pines protect themselves from fires by possessing a scaly trunk that can shed thin, flaky segments during burns. If you stand near the bark, you may also smell the pine's distinct fragrance.