Sosna

Sosna, commonly known as Scots pine, Pinus sylvestris, is a conifer native to most of Europe and into Siberia. It is one of the most widespread pine species, forming the backbone of many boreal and mixed forests. The tree is typically tall and slender, with a trunk often over 30 m tall; the bark is orange-brown and becomes scaly on older trees. The leaves are needles arranged in pairs, 4–7 cm long, and blue-green to gray-green. The cones are 3–7 cm long, upright on branch tips when mature, with scales that open to shed seeds.

Distribution and habitat: Pinus sylvestris ranges from the British Isles and Scandinavia eastward to the Urals and parts of Siberia, and can extend into southern ranges where climate allows. It tolerates cold winters, drought-prone soils, and low-nutrient sites, often dominating on sandy or rocky soils. In Poland, sosna is a common and economically important species.

Ecology: Scots pine forms extensive forests and can live for several centuries. It associates with ectomycorrhizal fungi, aiding nutrient uptake. It regenerates after disturbance, including fires, through seed dispersal by wind. It is susceptible to bark beetles and certain fungal diseases under drought stress.

Uses: The wood is a major softwood source for construction, joinery, pallets, and paper pulp. Resin from the tree has traditional and industrial uses, and essential oils are used in perfumery. It is frequently planted as a timber crop, windbreak, and ornamental tree.

Conservation: Widely distributed and abundant, Pinus sylvestris is not currently listed as threatened, though regional populations face pressures from pests, diseases, and climate change.