The Scotch pine is a gymnosperm from the family Pinaceae. It was once designated “weed of the week” by the USDA Forest Service, and is known as an invasive species. It reproduces very rapidly, and in some areas can form a mat of seedlings on the ground, which is concerning due to its overwhelming nature. When planted with other pines it outgrows them very quickly and crowd the others’ roots until it is the only tree capable of surviving. It is very susceptible to disease and insects, and here in the US has difficulty achieving the beautiful full stature of stands in Europe. It is intolerant to shade.  It prefers fine sands, but it can grow in a wide range of climates and temperatures, and can grow quite tall (70 to 120 feet). It has a distinctive orange-colored bark (once it has reached relatively old age), which can feature deep cracks and rusty coloring.