Project: Bristlecone

Click images for larger view.

The world’s oldest trees (non-clonal) are found in small groupings at high elevations across the west. Great Basin Bristlecone Pines (Pinus longaeva) grow between 9,000-11,000 feet and are highly adapted to cold. They also have a unique sectored architecture allowing them to supply water to specific segments of the tree which allows the tree to isolate parts of itself from other parts that may have become compromised in some way.  This sectioning also plays a great role in defining the “look” of each tree and through a combination of environmental factors such as wind, weather, and erosion each tree develops its own unique look and personality.  This project highlights subsections of each tree demonstrating growth patterns, juxtapositions, relationships, and the natural beauty that is the Great Basin Bristlecone Pine.