Pine Nut (Pinus pinea)

Pine nuts are the edible seeds of pine trees (family Pinaceae, genus Pinus). About 20 species of pine produce seeds large enough to be worth harvesting; in other pines the seeds are also edible, but are too small to be of value as a human food. 

Pine nuts have been eaten in Europe and Asia since the Paleolithic period. Pine nuts are regarded as a delicacy in many cultures around the world. 

The shelled pine nuts appear like puffed grains of rice. The pine nut is often called the stone pine, because the tree grows well in stony ground.

Plant Care

• Soil: Prefers sandy, well-drained soil. Tolerant to a range of soil types, optimal pH is 5.5 to 6.5.
• Watering: Moderate to low watering needs; mature trees are drought tolerant.
• Temperature: Can tolerate cold, but young plants should be protected from extreme frost.
• Light: Full sun is ideal to promote good nut production.
• Fertilising: Use a slow-release nitrogen-rich fertiliser to support healthy growth and nut production.
• Pruning: Prune to shape young trees and remove damaged limbs in older trees.
• Mulching: Mulch to maintain soil moisture and reduce temperature fluctuations.
• Flowering & Fruiting: Cones develop slowly and nuts mature in autumn.
• Potting: Not commonly potted due to size and growth habit.
• Fertilising Regime: Fertilise in early spring and again in late summer.