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.

Some populations differ in having cones that open at maturity, with seed dispersal not relying on fires.

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