Italian Stone Pine

Pinus pinea

Physical Characteristics

Pinus pinea is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen in April. 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) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

S. Europe around the Mediterranean.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Condiment Seed - raw or cooked[1, 2, 4, 11, 34, 63]. Rich in oil, the seed has a soft texture with a hint of resin in the flavour. It makes a delicious snack and can also be used as a staple food[K]. The seeds are often added to ice cream, cakes, puddings etc[183]. They can also be ground into a powder and used as a thickener and flavouring in soups etc[K]. The seed is a good size, up to 20mm x 10mm, and is a major source of pine nuts in commerce[200]. A vanillin flavouring is obtained as a by-product of other resins that are released from the pulpwood[200]. Young pine cones can be ground into a powder and used as a flavouring.[183]

Medicinal Uses

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].