Austrian pine and Eastern white pine are often considered for the same spot in the garden (specimen, screening). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Pinus nigra 4.5 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
Austrian pine is a large evergreen with stiff, dark green needles, conical when young and broad and umbrella-shaped with age, and it copes well with…
Pinus strobus 5 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
You can tell it by its soft, blue-green needles held in fives, which make it one of the most delicate-looking pines. The species is a fast-growing…
Austrian pine: We do not recommend it for most Central European gardens.
Eastern white pine grows faster than Austrian pine.
Eastern white pine is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -29 °C for Austrian pine.
Austrian pine tolerates drought better than Eastern white pine.
Austrian pine needs less water than Eastern white pine.
Eastern white pine needs less care than Austrian pine.
Austrian pine is cheaper: about €22 at the size usually planted, against about €29 for Eastern white pine.
|
Feature
|
Austrian pine
|
Eastern white pine
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Large tree | Large tree |
| Size after 10 years | 4.5 m × 2.5 m | 5 m × 2.5 m |
| Ultimate size | 12–25 m × 6–12 m | 15–30 m × 6–12 m |
| Growth rate | Medium | Fast |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Sandy, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Water need | Low | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | High | Low |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Planting distance | 600 cm | 600 cm |
| For children | no data | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. €22 | approx. €29 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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