Pinus Torreyana
By Mr. Rossi(Mr. Rossi)
The wild population is restricted to about 7000 trees growing in a narrow strip along the 20 mile strip in California that spreads from La Jolla to Solana Beach, although some have been found as far north as Leucadia. …

The Torrey Pine is the likely rarest pine in North American. The wild population is restricted to about 7,000 trees growing in a narrow strip along the 20 mile strip in California that spreads from La Jolla to Solana Beach, although some have been found as far north as Leucadia.There is also a population of in a single grouping off the coast of Santa Barbara on Santa Rosa Island of about 2000 trees.

The Torrey Pine is a broad, open crowned, umbrella shaped pine growing to 18-30 feet tall, with 8-10 inch long needles in groups of five. The female cones are stout and heavy, typically 2-5 inch long and broad, and contain large, hard-shelled, reddish, edible pine nuts- which were a staple of the Kumeyaay Indians that once inhabited the Area.

In its native range the Torrey Pine grow agonizingly slow in the dry sandy coastal soil. However, the root system is apparently extensive. A tiny sapling may send a root descending 25 inches seeking moisture and nutrients. An adult tree may extending roots down 30 inches. Wild Torrey Pines take on their characteristic tortuous shape from being subject to constant winds and weather.

These trees, though endangered, are a San Diego County Icon. Torrey Pines State Reserve, Torrey Pines State Beach, Torrey Pines High School and the World Renowned Torrey Pines Lodge and Golf Course all bear its name. (Source TPState Reserve Tour)