3-2-10: Pinus sylvestris

Pinus sylvestris On occasion it's hard for me to get going or get enthusiastic about a plant of the week, Scots pine was one of them for me. I love its look, sturdy and hardy with short blue green needles, yet for some reason it just seems so common.

And guess what? It is. The native range is grand, including Ireland, Great Britain (of course Scotland), Portugal, and Eastern Siberia south to the Caucasus Mountains and north to Scandinavia. So common it is, and with that ordinariness comes usefulness; wood for building, food and habitat for finches, owls, and insects, and even flavoring in ales. Scots Pine has a long rich mythology and history throughout the ages. In many cultures the Scots pine groves were to be approached and entered in silence and reverence, respectful of the gods and spirits of the wood. The pines were also used as markers; for graves of heroes, marking ancient cairns, trackways and crossroads. As you may notice I'm now totally engrossed in this tree and its story. Bringing it back to usefulness in our gardens; it has orange-red bark which is showy, slightly twisted, dusky green blue needles 2 inches long and egg shaped cones also 2 inches long and a gray to reddish brown color. Pinus sylvestris grows about sixty feet tall by about 30 feet wide. With age it becomes irregular and open in shape and very picturesque. It is suited to a wide range of soils and likes to grow in full sun. As found in Scotland growing among the birches and heathers, you may do the same in your garden, knowing that many before you have had a special relationship with this tree.

Pleasant Hill Nursery is pleased to offer:

Pinus sylvestris 'PJM' in #1's & #3's: Call for Prices & to Check Availability