Soledad Pine, Torrey pine, Santa Cruz Island Torrey pine, Soledad pine, Torrey pine

Pinus torreyana

Physical Characteristics

Pinus torreyana is an evergreen Tree growing to 20 m (65ft 7in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from January to March, and the seeds ripen from November to February. 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. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

South-western N. America - California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Condiment Seed - raw or cooked[1, 46, 82, 161, 183]. The oil-rich seed has a pleasant nutty flavour with a hint of resin[K]. It is gathered in quantity from wild trees and eaten raw or roasted[82]. Rather large, the seeds are up to 25mm long with a thick, hard shell[82]. A vanillin flavouring is obtained as a by-product of other resins that are released from the pulpwood[200].

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].