Coulter Pine produces the heaviest cones of any pine tree in the world — massive, spiky structures that can weigh up to 11 pounds and measure 16 inches long. They are sometimes called 'widow-maker' cones for the danger they pose when falling. The cones are armed with formidable curved claws, each up to 2 inches long. The trees grow on dry, rocky slopes in Southern California's chaparral and coastal mountain ranges, often on hot, south-facing slopes where other large conifers cannot survive.
Best time to see a Coulter Pine
The best time to see a Coulter Pine is January–June, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,888 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Coulter Pine sightings near you
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