Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill) has been a tremendously important species economically as well as biologically in the southeastern United States. This past importance is not reflected in the amount of resources dedicated to perpetuating its existence. A recent survey of forest-tree nurseries showed that less than one percent of the bare-root pine planting stock raised in southern nurseries was longleaf pine (Boyer and South 1984). A compilation of seed orchard acreage in 1981 showed only 443 acres of longleaf pine seed orchards compared to 5,482 acres for loblolly and 3,151 acres for slash pines (USDA 1982). Unlike related species, young longleaf pines typically remain in a stemless grass stage for several growing seasons. This growth pattern, possibly an adaption for fire resistance, has complicated artificial regeneration. Once past the grass stage, however, longleaf grows similarly to other southern pines and offers desirable characteristics that make it suitable for high value products. Recent advances in artificial regeneration techniques detailed elsewhere in these proceedings have made tree improvement much more attractive for longleaf pine. The species is quite variable and therefore well suited for genetic manipulation. Significant genetic gains can be achieved by practical tree improvement programs (Goddard, et al 1984). This report reviews current knowledge on the genetics of longleaf pine and suggests improvement procedures.