Eastern white pine and Scots 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 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…
Pinus sylvestris 4.5 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
A fast-growing native pine that starts out conical and later forms a loose, umbrella-like crown, with striking orange-red bark on the upper trunk…
Scots pine is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -34 °C for Eastern white pine.
Scots pine tolerates drought better than Eastern white pine.
Eastern white pine is cheaper: about €28 at the size usually planted, against about €45 for Scots pine.
|
Feature
|
Eastern white pine
|
Scots pine
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Large tree | Large tree |
| Size after 10 years | 5 m × 2.5 m | 4.5 m × 2.5 m |
| Ultimate size | 15–30 m × 6–12 m | 10–30 m × 9–15 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Sandy, Acidic | Average garden soil, Sandy, Acidic, Calcareous, Clay |
| Hardiness | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 600 cm | 600 cm |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. €28 | approx. €45 |
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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