Question
I live in zone 9 (new orleans) and I really want to flank my small 2 story suburban house with pencil pines as a foundation plants to give it a little "horizontal-ness" and dignity. How close is the closest I can get away with?

Answer
This tree can have a width of about 4-5 feet meaning from the trunk the branches will extend about 3 feet. So I would plant them no closer than the 3 feet from the house. This will keep the branches from rubbing the house later as it ages. The roots should not be a problem with the foundation. Should do well in Louisiana.