Great Plant Pick: Pinus contorta ‘Chief Joseph,’ golden lodgepole pine

Published 1:30 am Saturday, January 12, 2019

What: Electric gold barely seems sufficient to describe the needles of this beguiling Pacific Northwest native lodgepole pine cultivar discovered in northeastern Oregon. The new growth of Pinus contorta “Chief Joseph” in spring and summer is the typical green — then dazzling golden-yellow foliage is revealed in late autumn to early winter as frosts arrive. This is definitely a blast of color for the winter garden.

Where: For the best color effect, plant in full sun. The soil should be well-drained.

Size: This conifer grows to be 20 feet tall and 6 feet wide when mature.

Care: Water regularly during the dry season for the first two years, or until it is established. After that, water occasionally.

— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Pick