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South Florida Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii var. densa) growing in South Florida
Florida NativeFFL QualifiedGrade Florida #1

South Florida Slash Pine — South Florida Plant Guide

Pinus elliottii var. densa

Family: Pinaceae · Tree

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

specimenboulevardpineland restorationwindbreaknaturalistic garden

Style Tags

florida nativenaturalisticcoastalwildlife friendly

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full Sun

Water Requirements

Low2/10

Once established (12–18 months), South Florida Slash Pine is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Drought tolerant once established (18-24 months). Water 2x per week during establishment. After establishment, no supplemental irrigation needed in South Florida. Overwatering in poorly drained soils causes root rot. SFWMD drought exempt as Florida native. Adapted to South Florida's seasonal wet-dry cycle.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestonerockywell drained

Fertilizer: Light balanced slow-release fertilizer — minimal need as native

Schedule: Generally not required as Florida native in appropriate site conditions. If deficiency observed, light balanced fertilizer in March.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
4080 ft
Mature Width
1525 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
2/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
4/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find South Florida Slash Pine at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does South Florida Slash Pine grow in South Florida?

South Florida Slash Pine has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is South Florida Slash Pine safe for pets?

Yes, South Florida Slash Pine is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic to dogs and cats in typical landscape settings. Needle and cone ingestion may cause minor GI irritation — not a significant risk.

How much water does South Florida Slash Pine need in South Florida?

Low water needs (2/10). Once established (12–18 months), South Florida Slash Pine is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can South Florida Slash Pine tolerate salt air in South Florida?

South Florida Slash Pine has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is South Florida Slash Pine available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, South Florida Slash Pine is classified as: protected. Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Protected

Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.3075.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Protected

Florida native — protected. Heritage tree protections apply to qualifying specimens.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Protected

Florida native — protected. Less common in Palm Beach County.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Protected

Florida native — protected. Critical pineland species in Collier County.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Protected

Florida native — protected but less common in Monroe County. Primarily on larger interior islands with natural freshwater.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about South Florida Slash Pine

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