Mature, well-managed longleaf stands share several fundamental characteristics:

• Stands dominated by a single species of tree - the longleaf pine
• Conspicuous lack of midstory trees and shrubs presenting a scenic vista through the forest
• Well-developed, diverse ground layer, dominated by bunch grasses and other flowering plants
• Presence of numerous wildlife species that are dependent upon the open pine forest
• Frequent fires for maintaining the open, park-like setting
• Found across a variety of habitat types