Pinien

Pinien, also known as stone pines or umbrella pines, are evergreen coniferous trees belonging to the genus Pinus. They are native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in coastal areas and low mountain ranges. The most well-known species is Pinus pinea, characterized by its distinctive umbrella-shaped crown when mature, formed by a dense canopy of needles atop a tall, clear trunk. The wood of pinien trees is often used in construction and furniture making.

A significant characteristic of Pinus pinea is its large, edible pine nuts, which are produced within woody cones. These nuts have been a food source for centuries and are a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, used in pestos, salads, and as a garnish. The cones themselves are also distinctive, being large and round. Pinien trees are adapted to dry, sandy soils and are often planted for soil stabilization and to prevent erosion. They are also valued for their ornamental qualities, particularly the mature trees with their iconic silhouette. The trees can live for several hundred years.