Longleaf pine ( Pinus palustris ) once could be found from southeastern Virginia to eastern Texas. Longleaf pines are not usually killed by fire. Because these pines need open spaces to survive, fire is a good thing for longleaf pines. Over many years, much of the longleaf pine forests were cut for lumber. Now, however, many people are concerned about longleaf pine forests. In many areas, these forests are being managed to help them survive and grow. Fire is a necessary part of this process. The Topics: Fire, Insects, Arthropods, Fire Recovery, Forest Restoration, Habitat, Leaf Litter, Longleaf Pine.