Pinus contorta var. latifolia 'Chief Joseph' is a slow-growing, irregular-upright selection of Lodgepole pine (so-named for their use as structural support of native American lodges and teepees). Although there is some color variation depending on location, generally the spring and summer color is a light yellow-green but, come the fall and winter months, it turns bright yellow as temperatures drop and when most color fades from the garden. In colder climates it's a beacon during the winter months. Come spring, it reverts to green. After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 5 to 6 feet (1.6 - 2 m) tall and half as wide, an annual growth rate of 6 to 8 inches (15 - 20 cm).