They do not usually grow perfectly straight, resulting in an irregular shape similar to pitch pine (Pinus rigida).

[10][11] A population on the Maine coast is apparently not reliant on fire for reproduction,[12] and some stands have developed several age classes.

[14] Its leaves are needle-shaped, evergreen, in fascicles of two, needle-like, straight or slightly twisted, stiff, sharp-pointed, light yellowish-green, spread apart; edges toothed and 2–4 cm (3⁄4–1+1⁄2 in) long.

[16] The typical case is in a fire, however cones on the lower branches can open when temperatures reach 27 °C (81 °F) due to the heat being reflected off the ground.

[17] Kirtland's warbler (Setophaga kirtlandii), a formerly endangered bird, depends on pure stands of young jack pine in a very limited area in the north of the Lower and Upper Peninsulas of Michigan for breeding.

Young jack pines are an alternate host for sweet fern blister rust (Cronartium comptoniae).

[19] Fossil evidence shows the jack pine survived the glacial period in the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains.

[20] Like other species of pine, Pinus banksiana has use as timber, although its wood tends to be knotty and not highly resistant to decay.