Great Basin Bristlecone Pine

The Great Basin Bristlecone Pine is a remarkably hardy tree species native to the high-altitude regions of the western United States. It is renowned for its incredible longevity, with some individuals living over 5,000 years, making them among the oldest known living organisms on Earth. These trees have dense, resinous wood resistant to decay and harsh climate conditions, including cold temperatures and strong winds. Their twisted, gnarled appearance and slow growth illustrate their adaptation to their environment. The Great Basin Bristlecone Pine is valued for its scientific significance and resilience, serving as a natural record of climate change over millennia.