Chilghoza Pine

Pinus gerardiana

Physical Characteristics

Pinus gerardiana is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft 0in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

E. Asia - Afghanistan and the N. W. Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Condiment Seed - raw or cooked[4, 63, 158]. Rich in oil, they have a pleasant flavour with a hint of resin and can be used as a staple food[2]. Used like pistachio nuts[183]. A very good size, up to 2.5cm (1 inch) long[200]. The seed is an important local food source[11, 146], and is considered to be a great delicacy[51, 183]. A vanillin flavouring is obtained as a by-product of other resins that are released from the pulpwood[200].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiseptic Diuretic Poultice Rubefacient Stimulant Vermifuge The seed is anodyne and stimulant[240]. The oil obtained from the seeds is used as a dressing on wounds and ulcers, it is also used externally in the treatment of head diseases[240]. The turpentine obtained from the resin of all pine trees is antiseptic, diuretic, rubefacient and vermifuge[4]. It is a valuable remedy used internally in the treatment of kidney and bladder complaints and is used both internally and as a rub and steam bath in the treatment of rheumatic affections[4]. It is also very beneficial to the respiratory system and so is useful in treating diseases of the mucous membranes and respiratory complaints such as coughs, colds, influenza and TB[4]. Externally it is a very beneficial treatment for a variety of skin complaints, wounds, sores, burns, boils etc and is used in the form of liniment plasters, poultices, herbal steam baths and inhalers[4].

Known Hazards

The wood, sawdust and resins from various species of pine can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[222].