Family: Pinaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Pinus taeda, commonly known as loblolly pine, is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to the central and southeastern United States. It is widely planted for timber, pulpwood, erosion control, windbreaks, and ornamental landscaping. This tall pine typically develops a straight trunk with reddish-brown bark and long bundles of slender green needles. Because of its rapid growth and adaptability to a variety of soil conditions, loblolly pine has been extensively cultivated in forestry plantations and has also been introduced to tropical and subtropical regions, including the Hawaiian Islands.

Risks & Threats
Loblolly pine is naturalized on Kaua‘i, Lāna‘i, and Hawai‘i Island, and is considered potentially naturalizing on O‘ahu. This species possesses traits that are cause for concern, including rapid growth, high seed production, and the ability to establish in disturbed habitats and open landscapes. Dense stands can alter native plant communities, increase competition for light and water, and change soil conditions and fire behavior. In tropical island ecosystems, these impacts may reduce biodiversity and hinder the regeneration of native species. Because of these risks, loblolly pine could detrimentally impact Hawai‘i’s ecosystems if its spread is not carefully managed. When suitable, choosing low-risk or native tree alternatives is recommended to help protect Hawai‘i’s unique natural environments.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range
  
• Environmental weed (invasive in multiple countries)
  
• Congeneric weeds exist
  
• Broad climate & soil tolerance
  
• Produces viable seed abundantly
  
• Hybridizes naturally
  
• Self-compatible (limited selfing)
  
• Wind- and water-dispersed seeds
  
• Persistent seed bank (>1 year)
  
• Tolerates fire, drought, & mutilation

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not toxic
  
• Fire-resistant (low flammability)
  
• Shade intolerant
  
• No vegetative spread
  
• Long time to first flowering (10–12 years)
  
• Not bird-dispersed or produce contaminant
  
• Low seed production per area (<1000/m²)