Contents
Description
Pinus Cembra, also known as Swiss Stone Pine, is a coniferous tree that is native to the high elevations of the Alps, Carpathians, and Balkans. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 25 meters in height and up to 1 meter in diameter at breast height. The tree has a pyramidal shape when young, but it becomes more cylindrical with age. The bark is grayish-brown and becomes scaly with age.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
The needles of Pinus Cembra are 5-10 cm long and are arranged in bundles of five. The needles are a bluish-green color and are soft to the touch. The cones are 7-13 cm long and are initially green, but they turn brown when they mature. The cones have scales that are thin and flexible, making them easier to handle than other types of pine cones. The wood of Pinus Cembra is pale yellow to white and has a fine, even texture.
Care Guide
Pinus Cembra prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. It is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Pinus Cembra is adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soils, so avoid over-fertilizing. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pinus Cembra is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. The most common pests include pine needle scale, pine bark adelgid, and Zimmerman pine moth. The most common diseases include white pine blister rust, Dothistroma needle blight, and Diplodia tip blight. Proper care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pruning, can help prevent pests and diseases.
Habitat
Pinus Cembra is native to the high elevations of the Alps, Carpathians, and Balkans. It is commonly found in subalpine and alpine forests, where it grows in rocky soil and in areas with low nutrient availability. The tree is also commonly planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pinus Cembra a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Pinus Cembra is a slow-growing tree.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Pinus Cembra?
A: The best time to fertilize Pinus Cembra is in the spring.
Q: Can Pinus Cembra tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Pinus Cembra is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Q: What is the most common disease that affects Pinus Cembra?
A: The most common disease that affects Pinus Cembra is white pine blister rust.
Related Plants
- Pinus Sylvestris
- Pinus Pumila
- Pinus Mugo
- Pinus Cembroides
References
- “Pinus Cembra.” Plants for a Future. Accessed 28 Oct. 2021. http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pinus+Cembra
- “Pinus Cembra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 Oct. 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b871
- “Pinus Cembra.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 28 Oct. 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18984/Pinus-cembra/Details
