Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)

Although the Lodgepole pine is a close relative of the native Scots pine, this decorative form stands out with a truly eye-catching winter display. During summer this is green, but after the first good frost it turns bright gold and keeps its colour until the new growth appears in spring. This makes the variety a useful plant for winter colour.

Lodgepole pines can reach nearly 100 feet tall and are tolerant of dry and infertile soils. They are often the first trees to re-colonize land after a fire, as their cones require extreme heat to open and drop seeds.