Known scientifically as Pinus banksiana, the Jack pine is a native North American evergreen tree that can be found naturally growing thoughout central and eastern Canada and south into Minnesota, Wisconsin and Maine. The Jack pine typically does not grow straight and thus mature trees of this species tend to have an irregular shape. They are said to be fire adapted, with Jack piunes readily resedding areas that have been ravaged by fires due to the nature of the pine cones to hold their seeds for several years. In Michigan, stands pf Jack pine trees are home to the endangered Kirtland's warbler, as well creating lush understory of blueberries due to the acidic soil created by the pine needles.

The Jack pine is adapatable to wide aray of soils, and will grow in poorer soil conditions than the Red pine and Eastern white pine. Commercially, the jack pine is used as pulpwood, lumber, and sometimes even Christmas trees. It is a moderate grower, typically reaching heights of 80 feet when mature. Plant in full sun for optimal growth. Grows best in Zones 2 - 7.