Stone pine Pinus pinea
ABOUT
The plant, commonly known as the Italian stone pine or umbrella pine, is a distinctive evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region. This plant is easily recognizable by its unique canopy shape, resembling the silhouette of an open umbrella. The canopy spreads widely, creating a circular, umbrella-like form atop a straight and sturdy trunk, which is covered in a textured, thick bark that provides protection from fires and pests. The leaves of the Italian stone pine are needle-like, long, and flexible, typical of many pine species. These needles are richly green and arranged in pairs, giving the branches a full and lush appearance. The foliage is not only aesthetically pleasing but also aromatic, and can provide a pleasant fragrance especially when warmed by the sun. As for the reproductive structures, the Italian stone pine produces conspicuous, woody cones. These cones are large and robust, with a classic pine cone shape that is symmetrical and segmented. The tree's mature cones house the edible seeds, commonly known as pine nuts, which are valued for their nutty flavor and are a staple in various culinary traditions. The Italian stone pine often serves an ornamental purpose, being planted in gardens and parks for its striking form and the pleasant shade its canopy offers. Its appearance is a symbol of the Mediterranean landscape, and it has been depicted in art and literature for centuries, revered for its beauty and the practical benefits it provides.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pinaceae
Synonyms
Italian Stone Pine, Umbrella Pine, Stone Pine, Parasol Pine
Common names
Pinus pinea.
ToxicityTo humans
The Pinus pinea, commonly known as the Stone Pine, is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, its seeds, also known as pine nuts or pignolia, are edible and are a common ingredient in various dishes, including pesto. There is no well-documented toxicity in ingesting parts of the Stone Pine for humans, and it is generally regarded as safe.
To pets
The Stone Pine is not known to be toxic to pets. However, ingesting large amounts of pine needles can potentially cause gastrointestinal irritation or obstruction in pets due to the physical nature of the needles. Pine nuts themselves are not toxic to pets, but moderation is key as high-fat foods can cause upset stomachs in animals. It's also wise to keep pets from ingesting the sap as it can be sticky and difficult to remove from fur. While not toxic, monitoring your pet’s interaction with any plant, including the Stone Pine, is prudent to prevent any potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
40-60 feet (12-18 meters)
Spread
20-40 feet (6-12 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Nuts: Pinus pinea, commonly known as the stone pine, produces pine nuts that are edible and used in various culinary dishes.
- Shade Provider: The tree's expansive canopy offers shade, making it a popular choice for parks and large gardens.
- Erosion Control: Its deep root system helps to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
- Aesthetic Value: The stone pine is often appreciated for its unique, umbrella-like canopy shape, adding aesthetic value to landscapes.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The tree provides habitat and food for birds and other wildlife species.
- Timber Production: The wood of Pinus pinea is used for construction, furniture, and craftwork due to its quality and durability.
- Recreational Use: The tree is commonly used in landscaping for recreational areas, offering a natural, serene environment.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: The seeds, commonly known as pine nuts, contain antioxidants which can help in neutralizing free radicals in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Extracts from Pinus pinea have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially helping to reduce inflammation.
- Neuroprotective effects: Certain compounds in Pinus pinea, such as pinolenic acid, may have neuroprotective properties that could aid in protecting nerve cells.
- Respiratory health: Pinus pinea extracts might be used in treating some respiratory conditions due to expectorant properties.
- Antibacterial properties: The essential oils from Pinus pinea needles have been found to have antibacterial activity against various strains of bacteria.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible seed coating: The hard shell of Pinus pinea seeds, commonly known as pine nuts, can be used as a natural abrasive in cleaning solutions.
- Traditional roofing: In some Mediterranean regions, the thick bark of Pinus pinea has been used as a roofing material for its insulating properties.
- Furniture polish: The resin from Pinus pinea can be processed and used in furniture waxes and polishes to give wood a shiny finish.
- Environmentally friendly paint: The resin is also a component in making eco-friendly paints and varnishes.
- Agricultural mulch: The needles of the stone pine, when dried, are used as mulch to protect soil and conserve moisture in gardening and landscaping.
- Natural dye: Pine cones and needles can be boiled to extract a natural dye for fabric and craft projects.
- Aromatic stuffing: Dried leftover materials from the stone pine, such as needles and small twigs, can be used to stuff natural air fresheners or sachets.
- Firewood: The wood of the stone pine burns slowly and is used for firewood, providing heat and a pleasant pine aroma.
- Tannin source: The bark contains tannins that can be used in the tanning of leather.
- Cork substitute: Thick layers of the bark can be used as a substitute for cork in various applications, including insulation and as a natural sealant.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Stone Pine, also known as Pinus pinea, is not commonly referenced in Feng Shui practice for specific uses, but as a tree, it can be associated with characteristics such as longevity, resilience, and stability. In general, plants and trees in Feng Shui are used to improve the flow of chi, create balance, and connect with the wood element. If integrating a Stone Pine into a space, it should be placed in the east to promote family harmony and health or southeast to attract wealth and abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Stone Pine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Pinus pinea, commonly known as the Stone pine or Umbrella pine, is a species that can live for many years, symbolizing endurance and the passage of time.
- Resilience: Stone pines are known for their ability to withstand harsh conditions, representing the ability to endure adversity.
- Immortality: In some cultures, the evergreen nature of the Stone pine is associated with eternal life and immortality.
- Fertility: Pine nuts, which come from the Stone pine, are often associated with fertility and prosperity, owing to their role as a nutrient-rich food source.
- Peace: The Stone pine can represent peace and tranquility, possibly because of its gentle and steady presence in the landscape.
WaterThe Stone pine, commonly known as the Italian Stone Pine, is an adaptable tree that prefers deep, infrequent watering sessions, especially once established. For young trees, water them weekly, using about 2-3 gallons per inch of trunk diameter at breast height. During the growth season, this can be increased slightly, but always allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Cut back on watering during the cooler months to prevent root rot. As the tree matures, it may only need supplemental watering during periods of extended drought.
LightThe Italian Stone Pine thrives best in full sunlight where it can receive at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily. It's important to plant it in a spot where it is not overshadowed by taller buildings or trees to ensure it gets the necessary amount of light for healthy growth.
TemperatureItalian Stone Pines are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they flourish in zones where the temperature remains between 20 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive brief cold snaps as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit but require protection from prolonged freezing conditions.
PruningPruning of the Italian Stone Pine is generally not needed but may be done to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain a desired shape. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring, just before the onset of new growth. Avoid heavy pruning as this can stress the tree.
CleaningNot needed
SoilStone pine prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix containing 2 parts sand, 1 part peat, and 1 part pine bark is ideal for ensuring adequate drainage and aeration, which is crucial for the health of the stone pine’s roots.
RepottingStone pine, commonly known as Italian stone pine, should be repotted every 3-5 years during its youth. It can be repotted less frequently as it matures, depending on growth rate and pot size, but always ensure minimal root disturbance.
Humidity & MistingItalian stone pine tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but does best with moderate ambient humidity. It is adapted to outdoor conditions and does not require high humidity environments typical of tropical plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Italian stone pine by a sunny window, in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant Italian stone pine in full sun, well-draining soil, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
7-11 USDA
Life cyclePinus pinea, commonly known as the stone pine, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically after experiencing the heat of a fire or intense sunlight, which cracks open the tough seed coat. After germination, the seedling grows through a juvenile phase, developing a deep taproot and establishing a rosette of needles. As the tree matures into its vegetative stage, it develops a distinctive umbrella-like canopy, with branches that spread outwards and upwards. The stone pine then enters its reproductive phase, producing both male cones that release pollen and larger female cones that, upon fertilization, develop seeds within protective scales. These seeds are often dispersed by birds and small mammals. Finally, after a long life that can span several centuries, the tree dies, decomposes, and returns nutrients to the soil, closing the life cycle loop.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Stone pine, or Pinus pinea, is through its seeds, which are pine nuts. The optimal time for sowing these seeds is in late winter to early spring. Pine nuts should first be stratified, which involves simulating winter conditions by keeping them in a cold environment, typically a refrigerator, at around 34 to 41°F (1 to 5°C) for about one to two months. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in well-draining soil at a depth of about an inch (2.5 cm). They require ample sunlight and should be kept moist until germination occurs. It is crucial to protect the seeds from birds and rodents during this period. Germination can be slow and uneven, but under optimal conditions, seedlings will emerge and can be later transplanted to their permanent locations.
