Overview
Pinus cembroides is a bushy conifers in the genus Pinus, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pinus cembroides grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens, coastal and cottage and informal garden.
About
Pinus cembroides, commonly known as pinyon pine or Mexican stone pine, is a bushy evergreen conifer belonging to the genus Pinus. This genus includes both shrubs and large trees with needle-like leaves arranged in clusters and prominent cones that may persist on the tree for years. Pinus cembroides thrives in full sun and well-drained soils ranging from chalk to clay, preferring slightly acidic conditions but tolerating a range of pH levels. It is hardy to UK zone H7 and suitable for various garden styles, including architectural and coastal settings. Propagation is typically by grafting.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pinus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Pinus cembroides size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pinus cembroides
- Propagation
- Propagate by grafting
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to adelgids, aphids, pine sawfly and pine shoot moth
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pinus cembroides?
Pinus cembroides prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Pinus cembroides need?
Pinus cembroides is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Pinus cembroides hardy in the UK?
Pinus cembroides has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Pinus cembroides?
Propagate by grafting.
More in the Pinus genus
- Pinus albicauliswhite-bark pine

- Pinus aristata 'Doc'

- Pinus attenuataknobcone pine

- Pinus ayacahuiteMexican white pine

- Pinus banksiana 'Chippewa'

- Pinus bhutanicaEast Bhutan pine

- Pinus californiarumCalifornia single-leaf pinyon

- Pinus contorta 'Compacta'