About
Pinus nigra, the Austrian pine, is a large, evergreen tree developing an irregular, dense crown with age. Dark-green, paired needles to 12 cm long and ovoid, pale-brown cones are produced. A reliable, wind-firm and ornamental pine for a well-drained, sunny garden � tolerant of urban conditions.
About the genus
Pinus, the pines, are evergreen coniferous trees or shrubs � some with attractive bark � developing an irregular crown with age and bearing long, needle-like leaves in bundles of 2, 3 or 5. Conspicuous cones may fall or persist on the tree for years. Among the most widely grown of all ornamental conifers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toMediterranean to N Caucasus
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil. See Trees: buying and planting specimens
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to adelgids, conifer aphid, sawfly larvae, and pine shoot moth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases