Pine Parenthood
Posted by Vince Frasher on July 5, 2003
Q: A friend spent some time in the San Jacinto State Park near Idyllwild, CA and said he saw some of the largest pine cones he had ever seen (larger than a shoe). He said he thought one was called the "Widowmaker" but isn't sure. Can you tell me what large pine cones would be in this area?
Thank you for your help.
A: Although quite sure what the pine cone was, I
checked out a California map and my field guide to trees to be sure. Your friend almost certainly saw a Sugar Pine cone (Pinus lambertiana). Their cones can reach 26 inches in length and 4-5 inches in diameter and are definitely the largest in North America. I haven't heard it called the Widowmaker before but I can certainly see why it might be.
John Wiessinger ( July 7, 2003)