Stone pine

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Stone Pine

The Stone Pine (Pinus pinea), also known as the Italian Stone Pine, Umbrella Pine and Parasol Pine, is a tree from the Pinaceae family that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a species of pine that is widely cultivated for its pine nuts, which are commonly used in cooking and baking.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Stone Pine is a coniferous evergreen tree that can grow up to 20-35 m in height. The bark is thick, scaly, and deeply fissured. The leaves, or needles, are in pairs, very slender, and 10-20 cm long. The cones are broad, ovoid, 8-15 cm long, and take two to three years to mature. The seeds, or pine nuts, are large, 2 cm long, and edible.

Distribution and Habitat[edit | edit source]

The Stone Pine is native to the Mediterranean region, stretching from Portugal and Spain in the west to Turkey and Lebanon in the east. It is also found in North Africa, in countries such as Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The tree is adapted to a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Cultivation and Uses[edit | edit source]

The Stone Pine has been widely cultivated for its edible pine nuts since prehistoric times. The nuts are a staple food in the Mediterranean diet and are used in a variety of dishes, including pesto, salads, and baked goods. The tree is also grown for ornamental purposes, particularly in coastal areas and in cities for its aesthetic appeal and shade.

Conservation Status[edit | edit source]

The Stone Pine is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many tree species, it faces threats from habitat loss, climate change, and pests and diseases.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]


This tree-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD