Pinus pinea
Italian Stone Pine
Description
Italian Stone Pine (Pinus pinea) is a large pine tree with a moderate growth rate, reaching up to 40’-80' tall and 40’-60' wide. This tree should not be selected for small to medium-sized gardens as it will outgrow the space very quickly. It is also not recommended for fire-prone areas. Visit the Orange County Fire Authority for more information. It is unparticular about its soil, and it is considered a low-water-use tree. The needles of this pine tree are quite long, and the tree can be messy, so it is best to plant this tree without any under-planting, using natural wood mulch underneath. Needle droppings can be left in place under the tree, adding to the natural mulch. There is very little pruning or care this tree needs when it is small, but once it has been in place for a few years, the pruning should be left to a licensed arborist to keep the tree looking and performing at its best. This tree should be planted at least 10 feet away from any hardscape areas, 30 feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about 5 feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about
Plant Type
Tree, Conifer
Height Range
40-60', 60-100'
Flower Color
n/a
Flower Season
n/a
Leaf Color
Blue Green, Grey, Silver
Bark Color
Brown, Grey
Fruit Color
Brown, Red
Fruit Season
Winter
Leaf Season
Evergreen
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Allergenic, Messy
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape
Accenting Features
Silhouette, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Park
Special Uses
Screen, Shade Tree
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Wildlife
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.