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Description
Pinus Pinaster, commonly known as the maritime pine, is a species of pine tree that belongs to the Pinaceae family. It is native to the western and southwestern regions of Europe, from Portugal to northern Italy, and can grow up to 30 meters tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Coniferophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
The maritime pine has a straight trunk with a reddish-brown bark that becomes scaly and flaky with age. Its needles come in pairs, measure between 15-25cm in length, and are a blue-green color. Its cones are large, measuring between 10-20cm in length, and have a conical shape.
Care Guide
The maritime pine is a resilient plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips to help it thrive:
- Water: The maritime pine is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, it may benefit from occasional deep watering during extended periods of dry weather.
- Fertilization: The maritime pine does not require regular fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: The maritime pine prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. However, it does not thrive in heavy clay soil.
- Sunlight: The maritime pine prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The maritime pine is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The maritime pine is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Pine processionary caterpillar: The caterpillars of this moth can defoliate the tree and cause skin irritation in humans and animals.
- Pine sawfly: The larvae of this sawfly can feed on the needles of the tree and cause defoliation.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of the tree to rot and eventually kill the tree.
Habitat
The maritime pine is commonly found in coastal areas with poor, sandy soil. It is often used in reforestation projects and as a windbreak or erosion control measure. It is also used for timber, pulpwood, and resin production.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the lifespan of a maritime pine?
A: The maritime pine can live up to 200 years.
Q: Can the maritime pine tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the maritime pine is tolerant of salt spray and can be planted in coastal areas.
Q: Is the maritime pine a fire-resistant plant?
A: The maritime pine is adapted to fire-prone areas and can survive and even regenerate after a fire.
Q: Can the maritime pine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the maritime pine can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine)
- Pinus radiata (Monterey pine)
- Pinus nigra (Austrian pine)
References
- “Pinus pinaster,” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, accessed August 17, 2021, https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:262341-1.
- “Pinus pinaster Aiton,” GBIF, accessed August 17, 2021, https://www.gbif.org/species/2732762.
- “Pinus pinaster,” Tree and Shrub Expert, accessed August 17, 2021, https://www.treeandshrubexpert.com/pinus/pinus-pinaster/.
