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Description
Pinus Sylvestris Aurea, also known as the Scots Pine or Golden Pine, is an evergreen coniferous tree that originated from Europe and Asia. It is a popular ornamental tree because of its striking, golden-yellow needles that add a bright touch to any landscape. It can grow up to 45 meters tall and has a cone-shaped top with a straight trunk.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
The Pinus Sylvestris Aurea has a unique appearance, which sets it apart from other pine trees. Its needles are long and thin, measuring up to 7 cm, and have a golden-yellow color that intensifies during the winter months. The bark is grey-brown and becomes scaly with age. The cones are small, measuring around 3-7 cm in length, and are reddish-brown in color. The tree’s overall shape is conical and symmetrical, and it has a straight trunk.
Care Guide
The Pinus Sylvestris Aurea is a hardy tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure its proper growth:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering in the first few years of growth to establish its root system. After that, it can survive on rainfall alone.
- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but grows best in fertile soil.
- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The Pinus Sylvestris Aurea is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most pine trees, the Pinus Sylvestris Aurea is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Pine Sawfly: This pest can defoliate the tree by eating the needles. Treat it with insecticidal soap.
- Pine Shoot Beetle: This beetle burrows into the tree’s shoots, causing them to wilt and die. It can be treated with insecticides.
- Pine Wilt Disease: This disease causes the tree to wilt and die. It is caused by a fungus and is untreatable.
- Pine Needle Rust: This disease causes orange spots on the needles. It can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
The Pinus Sylvestris Aurea is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in forests, mountains, and coastal areas. It prefers cold and temperate climates and can grow in a variety of soil conditions. It has been introduced to other regions of the world, including North America, where it is grown as an ornamental tree.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is the Pinus Sylvestris Aurea a fast-growing tree?
- A: No, it is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach its full height.
- Q: Can the Pinus Sylvestris Aurea tolerate drought?
- A: Yes, it can withstand periods of drought but prefers regular watering.
- Q: Can the Pinus Sylvestris Aurea be grown in containers?
- A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
- Q: Does the Pinus Sylvestris Aurea attract wildlife?
- A: Yes, it is a popular nesting site for birds and provides food for squirrels and other small mammals.
Related Plants
- Pinus Sylvestris
- Pinus Strobus
- Pinus Nigra
- Pinus Mugo
- Pinus Cembra
References
- “Pinus Sylvestris Aurea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b610.
- “Scots Pine.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 21 June 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18908/Pinus-sylvestris-Aurea/Details.
- “Pinus Sylvestris Aurea.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed 21 June 2021. www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/scots-pine-pinus-sylvestris-aurea.
