Pinus nigra (Austrian Pine) is a coniferous, evergreen tree that is native to southern Europe and northern Africa. The Austrian Pine is a significant timber producer, a common species for use as a windbreak and is popular as a bonsai variety. The resin of this tree has a wide range of medicinal benefits and is used to treat respiratory and kidney ailments.
Suitable for Cold and Temperate climates.
Pinus nigra is commonly known as Austrian Pine but is sometimes called the Black Pine. It is native to a wide area of southern Europe which includes mountainous areas of Spain, Turkey, Austria, and Italy. There are also native specimens found in the mountain ranges in northern Africa, mainly in Morocco.
For more varieties that are ideal for bonsai growing click here.
Growth
Pinus nigra is an evergreen tree that grows to a maximum height of 55 metres (180 feet) and a maximum width of 12 metres (39 feet). Their mountainous native habitat consists of moist, well-draining soil which would rarely dry out. Young trees can tolerate some shade but will eventually require a sunny location to spread its wide canopy. They can grow up to 70cm (28 inches) annually.
Seed cones can begin to grow from around 15 years of age and reach 10cm (4 inches) in length. They require about 18 months to ripen on the tree and will disperse via the wind during winter.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Pinaceae
CLIMATE:
Cold and Temperate climate
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-30 to 30°C / -25 to 85°F
SOIL TYPE:
Soil needs to remain moist, well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full Sun, Young trees tolerate Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 55 metres (180 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 12 metres (49 feet)
pH:
5.0-6.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Evergreen
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low-Medium
POLLINATION:
Wind Pollinated – Monoecious (Both male & female cones are found on the same plant)
MATURITY:
25-50 Years
GERMINATION RATES:
60-70%
GERMINATION TIME:
Soak for 24 hours
Cold Stratification for 4 weeks, post sowing germination averages around 3-4 weeks.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium-Hard
SEEDS PER GRAM:
50
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
No.
SEED STORGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 5 years.
FACTS ABOUT PINUS NIGRA (Austrian Pine)
During the 1950s and 1960s Pinus nigra was fancied as a Christmas tree due to its rapid growth, deep colour and handsome shape and size. However, the length of the needles made decorating the tree too difficult and so widespread commercialisation never materialised.
Topically, the resin of Austrian Pine trees is a traditional treatment for ailments such as skin complaints, wounds, sores, burns and can be used in the form of poultices and herbal steam baths.
For more information on the medicinal uses of Austrian Pine trees click here.
