Canopy tree density and species influence tree regeneration patterns and woody species diversity in a longleaf pine forest

•Regeneration patterns of two dominant tree species were studied at a large area mapped longleaf pine forest.•Pine saplings were more likely to occur with oak trees or in gaps than with pine trees.•Oak saplings were more likely to occur near oak trees.•Woody species richness was associated with areas of oak dominance rather than pine dominance.