Once this winter hardy pine species, native to the Alps, becomes better known to the public, it will become a popular landscape tree. This cultivar is a very elegant, stately tree. Its lateral branches curve markedly upward and slightly inward, resulting in a narrowly-erect, strikingly-dense growth habit. Color of needles year-round is a rich emerald-green, with silvery-blue overtones. This singularly outstanding specimen tree for yards and parks is being propagated by nurseries and is now available for landscape planting. Trees reach 25 to 30' in 20 to 25 years. USDA hardiness zone 2b-3. Propagated by side grafting. Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 2b-7 Mature Size: Height: 30' Spread: 15' Form (Shape): Narrowly-erect form. Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate Foliage: Rich emerald-green needles with silvery-blue overtones year-round. Texture: Medium to Fine Flower: Inconspicuous, no ornamental value. Fruit: 3" violet-brown cone, which remain on the tree for 3 years. Cones never open. Special Features: Narrowly-erect, strikingly-dense rich emerald-green with silvery-blue overtone growth. Light Preferences: Full sun Soil Preferences: Needs well-drained soil. Ornamental Attributes: Prairie Statesman® Swiss Stone Pine has outstanding perfectly symmetrical upright narrow form with a strikingly-dense growth habit. Landscape Attributes: It has increased hardiness and drought tolerance. Resistant to most pests and diseases. Transplants very well and needs little pruning for a strong structure. It is recommended as a landscape specimen tree. Comments: Originated as a seedling selection. Deer browsing can be an issue with this species. Patent Status: