Pinus pinea is native to the Mediterranean regions, including Italy, Spain, southern France, Greece, and parts of North Africa. It is widely cultivated in other temperate regions for its ornamental value and for the production of pine nuts.
Pinus pinea is an evergreen tree that can reach heights of 15-25 meters and, under optimal conditions, can exceed 30 meters. It has a broad, rounded crown that gives the tree a distinctive appearance. The trunk is upright and robust, with thick, rough, gray-brown bark. The leaves are needle-like, measuring 10 to 20 cm long, grouped in fascicles of two, and are dark green in color.
Flowering occurs in spring. Pinus pinea is a conifer and produces distinct male and female cones. The male cones are small, cylindrical, and yellow, while the female cones are larger, globular, and green, maturing to brown. The female cones can be 8 to 15 cm long and contain edible seeds known as pine nuts, which are light brown and covered by a thin membrane.
Pinus pinea thrives in well-drained, sandy or clay soils with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline. It prefers sunny locations and can tolerate moderate drought conditions once established. It is cold-resistant and can withstand moderate winter temperatures but does not favor prolonged or severe frosts. It is also salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal areas.
Pinus pinea is known for its large round cones and pine nuts, which are the edible seeds used in cooking for dishes such as pesto. The plant is often cultivated for the production of pine nuts and for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks, thanks to its distinctive shape and broad crown. Pine nuts are an important economic resource in many Mediterranean regions. Additionally, Pinus pinea is frequently used in reforestation and environmental recovery projects due to its ability to adapt to difficult soil conditions. Its dense crown and rounded shape also make it a popular choice for shading and wind protection.
