Red pine grows best in northern climates with low to moderate rainfall, and occurs on hills, ridges, outcrops and flatwoods.
Red pines growing in acid soils are less susceptible to pests and diseases.
Plantation-grown trees are subject to root rot fungus. The red pine is native to northeastern North America from Newfoundland to Manitoba, extending into the northern regions of midwestern and northeastern US, and is Minnesota's state tree. It is planted throughout Iowa, but is not native here.