Culture
Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained loams in full sun to light shade. Generally tolerant of urban conditions.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Pinus strobiformis, commonly called southwestern white pine, is native to northern Mexico and southern parts of Arizona and New Mexico. In its native habitat, it will grow to 80-100' tall with a pyramidal-conical shape that broadens with age. Dark blue-green needles are in bundles of five. Fruit is a yellowish-brown woody cone. This species is similar in appearance to limber pine (P. flexilis).
Genus name comes from the Latin name for pines.
Specific epithet means resembling P. strobus (eastern white pine).
‘Coronado’ is a dwarf selection that slowly grows to 2-3’ tall and as wide over the first ten years. Over time, it may eventually reach 5-8' tall and spread to 8-12' wide. It was reportedly discovered growing in the Coronado National Forest in Arizona. It forms a dense irregular spreading globe of contorted and leaning branches with soft bluish green needles.
Problems
Pines are susceptible blights and rusts, however this species is noted for having good resistance to blister rust. Canker is an additional disease problems of significance. Possible insect problems include pine weevil, bark beetles, pine shoot borer, Zimmerman moth larvae, pine sawfly, scale and aphids. Spider mites are occasional visitors in some areas.
Uses
'Coronado' is effective as an accent or specimen in the rock garden or Japanese garden or border front. Also effective in foundations and other small garden areas.