DENDROLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The cones of longleaf pine are the largest of the southern pine and range in size from 5 to 12 inches in length. Because of their large size, only animals like the fox squirrel are sizable enough to manipulate and open the longleaf pine cones to eat the seeds before they fall to the ground.

Detailed explanation-2: -Based on three measurements and a points system, the woody perennial plant is the largest of its kind in the United States. Aiken’s longleaf pine is 105 feet tall and has an average crown spread of 56 feet. The circumference of its trunk is 140 inches, which is more than 11 feet.

Detailed explanation-3: -Its leaves or needles grow 10 to 18 inches long, in crowded clusters of 3 to a sheath; cones are 6 to 10 inches long and dull brown.

Detailed explanation-4: -Longleaf pine is an evergreen conifer that got its common name for having the longest leaves of the eastern pine species. The needlelike leaves, which come in bundles of three, can grow up to 18 inches (46 centimeters) long. Mature trees stand 80 to 100 feet (24 to 30 meters) tall.