Jeffrey Pine has a deep and vigorous root system and is thus considered a very wind firm species compared to other associated species. This is an additional adaptation that allows Jeffrey to live in environmental conditions that other species are unable to tolerate. Jeffrey pine forests are extremely diverse in species composition. Jeffrey Pine often occurs in pure stands along the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada. On the western slopes, it is associated commonly with Washoe Pine , Incense Cedar , White Fir , and Western Juniper .
Various annuals are also present such as paintbrush and lupine species.
Because of the openness of this forest type, it is great for bird watchers. Common understory associates include Ceanothus spp. Jeffrey pine replaces ponderosa at higher elevations. After pollination occurs, it takes thirteen months for fertilization to occur. Jeffrey Pines have one of the heaviest seeds of all North American winged seeds.