Typical slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm. var. elliottii) is an excellent timber tree and one of the most important pine species in the Southern United States. Many prefer it for its fast growth and excellent utility for fiber, lumber, poles, and gum naval stores. The habitat and preferred sites within its natural range include poorly drained flatwoods and stream edges, as well as seasonally flooded areas such as bays and swamps.