This document introduces three tree species found in Yellowstone and northern Utah: lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia), Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii), and subalpine fir (Abies lasciocarpa). It provides details on lodgepole pine, noting it is adapted to high severity fires, light demanding, produces serotinous cones, and its fire regime varies by location. Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir are typically associated, are shade bearing, and late successional.

1. 1
Introduction to species
• Pinus contorta var latifolia
lodgepole pine
• Picea engelmannii
Engelmann spruce
• Abies lasciocarpa
subalpine fir
Lodgepole pine
Similar to Scots pine
Adapted to high severity/
stand replacing fires
Light demanding
Precocious
Serotinous cones
(however % varies)
Details of fire regime vary
across range of lodgepole pine
Pinus contorta var. latifolia
Yellowstone
Northern Utah
Pinus contorta var. latifolia
Engelmann spruce
Typically associated with
Abies lasciocarpa
Both are shade bearing;
Late successional
Picea engelmanii/Abies lasciocarpa
Group selection