White pine grows best on moist well drained sandy loams that are neutral to acidic in nature, but can tolerate rocky outcrops and the edges of wet areas. It is intolerant of salt and pollution. The qualities of this tree allows it to grow into a mature forest continuously regenerating itself. Although the white pine is moderately tolerant of shade, because it grows so tall it needs a large open area to enable it to reach its maximum size.

The crown of the mature tree grown in the open is composed of wide spreading branches that are approximately at right angle to the trunk in its mid portion. The Needles are bluish green and fragrant. It has an indistinct tap root but is wide spreading making the tree quite wind firm.