Distribution of Pinus Contorta in the U.S.
Pinus Contorta have leaves that are needle-like, often contorted, and are paired. The cones that are produced by Pinus Contorta are heat sensitive and need a large amount of heat (i.e. a forest fire) in order for it to open and spread their seeds. The bark that is found on this tree is usually between brown to gray. The thickness is different in everyone individual.
Pinus Contorta can be found in many places in the United States and Canada. They are found primarily in Alaska, South Dakota, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Washington, Montana, Wyoming, and Oregon. Pinus Contorta have a varied range of ecological conditions in which it can grow. It can go from 1500 feet up to over 11,500 feet in elevation. It can survive in the cold climate of Canada to the warmer temperatures in South Dakota. It can survive temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. The limitations on Pinus Contorta are lack of water in the lower elevations to short growing seasons in the higher elevations. Though it can stand precipitation as low as 10 inches of water a year, it grows best in an environment where there is 18 inches or more of precipitation a year. They tend to grow better on slopes and basins however, they are known to do well on rocky terrains as well.