Shore Pine (Pinus contorta var. contorta), as the name implies, is a coastal species native to the western United States — ranging from Alaska to Northern California — usually found  growing in sandy soils or sand dunes. Trees in windswept coastal areas are often dwarfed and contorted by winds, while garden-grown specimens take on a more compact, pyramidal form with just hints of irregularity. Though not at its best in hot, dry regions, Shore Pine is a fairly adaptable and cold-hardy species (down to 0°F), and is often successfully cultivated well away from the seaside. Densely foliaged and easily-trained in youth, Shore Pine is a great tree for small gardens, and is likewise a good candidate for container growing. Sometimes called “Beach Pine,” “Coastal Lodgepole Pine,” “Screw Pine,” “Prickly Pine,” or “Knotty Pine,” this tree features 1 to 3 inch-long needles bundled in twos, deep, rugged bark, and small, prickly light yellow-brown cones. Trees can grow to heights of 100 feet, but typically remain below 50 feet-tall.