Male cones of Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), also called western yellow pine, is one of the most widely distributed pine in western North America. Found from southern Canada into Mexico, and from the Plains States of Nebraska and Oklahoma to the Pacific Coast. Within its extensive range, two varieties of the species currently are recognized: Pinus ponderosa var. ponderosa (Pacific ponderosa pine) and var. scopulorum (Rocky Mountain ponderosa pine). One of our most important timber trees. Photo Jefferson Co., CO.