Bristlecone pines are some of the oldest living trees in the world, found primarily in the western United States, particularly in the White Mountains of California. These trees can live for thousands of years, with some specimens estimated to be over 4,800 years old. They thrive in harsh, high-altitude environments, often growing in rocky, dry soils. The scientific name for bristlecone pines is Pinus longaeva. Their unique twisted shapes and gnarled branches are adaptations to extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and cold temperatures. Bristlecone pines are also known for their resilience, as they can survive in areas where other trees cannot.