Description
Pesto anyone? Italian Stone Pines are prized for its large sweet edible nuts rich in healthy oils since pre-Roman times. Often planted along major Roman roads to provide both food and shade. Ancient groves can still be found along ancient Mediterranean-Middle East trade routes. Each cone can bear 50 easy cracking nuts. Prefers well draining deep fertile soil and full sun. Tolerates dry conditions when established. Very ornamental as it takes on an umbrella-shaped crown often seen in post cards. Loves full sun. Fast growing five needle pine. Protect from epicurean deer, weed whackers & lawn mower enthusiasts. Self fertile. Bonsai suitable. If there’s a question about its hardiness, there are seed producing trees in Vancouver.
The fastest growing pine nut we’ve grown with seedlings reaching 45cm or more in their first growing season. Its best that seedlings don’t freeze in their first winter.
- Seed Count: 15-20
- Collection Date: December 2024
- Hardiness Zone: 7-10
- Height and Width: 10m x 6m
- Habitat: Full sun; moist humus rich soil but adaptable to many soil types not clay
- Family: Pinaceae
How to germinate Pinus pinea seed:
Surprisingly easy. Soak seed 24-36 hours in warm tap water. Change water 2x with warm tap water. Tiny bubbles should be effervescing from the hydrating seed. Using a sturdy resealable baggie mix the soaked seed with a cup of fine screened bark mulch (chopped pine needles will do nicely). Refrigerate at 2C for 5-7 days. Then give gentle warmth 25C. Should start germinating in 3-8 days. Prick out the sprouting seed and transplant 2cm deep. Give strong indirect light and warmth to maintain its rapid growth. A clear plastic cover maintains essential moisture and warmth.
