Wood: Red
pine is an important timber tree in eastern North America. The pale
reddish wood is close-grained, moderately hard and moderately heavy. It
is readily penetrated by timber preservatives and is used for poles, posts,
doors, window sashes, milled products, bridge construction and cabin logs.
It is an important source of pulp.
Wildlife: This species is very important to wildlife. Birds (red crossbills, pine siskins, pine grosbeaks), red squirrels, chipmunks and voles consume the seeds. Needles provide evergreen cover and nesting materials for various species.
Horticulture: Although growth is often adversely affected by the high clay content of soils in the state, red pine is used in Iowa for windbreaks, shelterbelts, wildlife habitats and conservation plantings. It is suitable for ornamental use in large areas such as parks, golf courses and campuses. A valuable reforestation species, red pine is second only to Jack pine in pioneering cutover areas. 'Globosa' is a compact, short-needled form.
