About
A large, fast-growing, evergreen conifer initially pyramidal in shape, with branches down to the ground, later developing a wide crown and bare trunk with deeply fissured, dark grey bark. Needles are dark green, pointed and fairly stiff, in pairs. Small, yellow flowers are followed by dark green, pointed cones, maturing to light brown.
About the genus
Pinus can be shrubs or large, evergreen trees, some species with attractive bark, developing an irregular outline with age and bearing long needle-like leaves in bundles of 2, 3 or 5; conspicuous cones may fall or remain on the tree for years
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeTrees, Conifers
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal
Native toSE Europe
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil, in full sun. Tolerates poor, dry soil and salt wind
PruningPruning group 1
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