Pinus radiata (Monterey Pine) is a coniferous evergreen tree that is native to Mexico and parts of California, United States. Monterey Pine is grown extensively throughout the world for its fast-growing lumber, pulp for newspapers and as a bonsai or ornamental tree. It is also the most popular species for use as a Christmas tree in Australia and New Zealand.
Suitable for Cold and Temperate climates.
Pinus radiata is also commonly known as Insignis Pine and Radiata Pine. Due to a fungal parasite called the pine pitch canker the Monterey Pine is struggling in its native environment in Mexico.
In cultivation, the Monterey Pine is a commercial success due to its fast growth rates, versatile soil tolerance and the quality of the timber that is produced. There are large plantations in New Zealand and Australia where the temperate climates are ideal for year round growth, which can sometimes yield up to 2 metres (7 feet) per year.
For more varieties that are ideal for bonsai growing click here.
Growth
Pinus radiata is an evergreen pine tree that grows to a maximum height of 65 metres (213 feet) and a maximum width of 10 metres (33 feet). Compared to most pine trees, the average lifespan of around 80-90 years is quite short.
Leaves or needles are bright green and grown in clusters of three. They can reach 15cm (6 inches) in length and have a blunt tip at the end. The ovulate seed cones can grow to 17cm (7 inches) long and some can remain dormant on the tree for years being only triggered by a fire.
In cultivation, the trees are pruned in three lifts so that the lower two-thirds are free of branches and knots which increases the length of usable timber.
More information on growing Monterey Pines can be found here.
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:
Sub-Arctic, Cold and Temperate climate
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-30 to 30°C / -25 to 85°F
SOIL TYPE:
Wide range of soils are suitable but avoid heavy clay.
LOCATION:
Full Sun – Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 65 metres (213 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 10 metres (33 feet)
pH:
5.0-6.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Evergreen
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low-Medium
POLLINATION:
Wind Pollinated
MATURITY:
25-30 Years
GERMINATION RATES:
70-80%
GERMINATION TIME:
Soak for 24 hours
Cold Stratification for 2 weeks, then germination averages around 3-4 weeks.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium-Hard
SEEDS PER GRAM:
10
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
No.
SEED STORGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 4 years.
FACTS ABOUT PINUS RADIATA (Monterey Pine)
Monterey Pine was introduced to Australia around the 1870s. Nowadays, it is one of the dominant species under cultivation in Australia and in the southern states is sometimes considered an invasive weed.
Common wood products made from Pinus radiata includes flooring, hardboard, ply and softwood and is highly regarded for use in furniture, cabinetry and in boat building. Lower grade pulp is allocated assist in the print of newspapers.
In Australia and New Zealand, the Monterey Pine is the most commonly used species as a Christmas tree.
