There is a range gap of about 200 km (120 mi) between the populations (from the Ochlockonee River to Cedar Key).

[4] Sand pine is largely confined to the very infertile, excessively well-drained, sandy habitat of Florida scrub.

It is vulnerable to windfall, and stands in areas prone to hurricanes can be found leaning in the same direction.

[6] Most fires occur in the spring due to low water content in the needles and high winds.

It is one of the few canopy trees able to grow in arid, sandy, and hot locations with minimal care.