Bristlecone Pine Tree Seeds (Pinus longaeva)
Bristlecone Pine Tree Seeds (Pinus longaeva)
Ancient, enduring, and awe-inspiring.
Pinus longaeva, the Great Basin Bristlecone Pine, is the oldest living tree species on Earth—some individuals surpassing 4,500 years. Twisted, gnarled, and resilient, these high-altitude icons grow where few others can survive, standing as living monuments to time itself. Their fine, bristled cones and silvered bark embody strength and longevity in the harshest of climates.
Why Choose Bristlecone Pine?
- Native to the high mountains of California, Nevada, Utah, and New Mexico
- Holds the record as the longest-living tree species in the world
- Slow-growing, sculptural, and uniquely beautiful with age
- Provides shelter and food for mountain wildlife in extreme conditions
Growing Details
- Botanical Name: Pinus longaeva
- Germination Rate: 97%
- Harvest Year: 2022
- Seed Source: New Mexico, USA
- Stratification: 30–60 days cold stratification recommended
- USDA Zones: 4–7
- Soil: Rocky, well-drained soils; thrives on limestone and dolomite slopes
- Light: Full sun
- Mature Size: 15–50 ft tall × 10–20 ft wide (smaller in harsh sites, taller in cultivation)
- Growth Rate: Very slow
- Packet Sizes: 5, 10, 25, 40, or 100 seeds
FAQ
How long can Bristlecone Pines live?
Some individuals are over 4,500 years old, making them the oldest living trees on Earth.
Do they need stratification?
Yes, a 30–60 day cold stratification period is recommended to boost germination success.
Can they grow outside of mountains?
Yes. While naturally adapted to high elevations, Bristlecones can be grown in cultivation if planted in well-drained soils with full sun.
Evergreen Seed Co. is trusted by growers nationwide for rare, resilient, and high-germination tree seeds. Each batch is carefully sourced, tested, and packaged with detailed planting instructions.
FAQ
FAQ
Do you pre-stratify the seeds?
Most of our seeds are not pre-stratified. We ship them unstratified so you can control germination timing based on your local growing season. We sell to all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and since each region has different planting windows, pre-stratifying would risk seeds germinating in transit or before you're ready to plant.
True stratification requires cold, moist conditions, which can lead to premature sprouting or mold if not timed properly. To avoid this, we store most seeds in dry cold conditions to preserve viability — but this does not initiate stratification.
Do any of your seeds need to stay moist? (Recalcitrant seeds)
Yes — some species we offer are recalcitrant, meaning they must remain moist to stay viable and cannot be dried out. Examples include: Chestnut, Hazelnut, Paw Paw, etc.
These seeds are shipped in moist cold storage and are clearly labeled on the product page when applicable. Please refrigerate immediately upon arrival and follow included care instructions.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the United States and Canada only. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to other countries without a phytosanitary certificate, which is required by most international customs agencies.
If you're interested in shipping outside North America, please contact us. Note that a phytosanitary certificate typically adds $60–$80 USD per seed type and must be arranged in advance.
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & Packaging
Hand-packed in resealable zipper kraft paper seed bags
Stratification and planting instructions included with every order
1 free bonus seed pack included with every order
Ships within 3–5 business days via USPS
Return Policy
Return Policy
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns on seeds.
However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days and we’ll make it right.
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