Description

Pinus nigra, also known as Austrian black pine, is a species of conifer in the Pinaceae family. It is an evergreen conifer. Its needles are grouped in pairs and are generally 10 to 20 cm long. They are dark green in colour and have a rough texture. It is a medium to large tree, reaching heights of 20 to 55 metres in optimum conditions. It has a conical shape when young, becoming more irregular with age. Its bark is generally dark grey to blackish in colour and cracks into patches with age. The cones of Pinus nigra are small, measuring between 5 and 10 cm in length. They are dark brown to blackish in colour and contain small winged seeds.

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Origin

Austrian black pine is native to central and south-eastern Europe, particularly the Alps, the Carpathians and the Balkans. It is also found in other parts of Europe, including the Mediterranean. Its wood is widely used in construction, joinery and furniture making because of its strength and durability, as well as for the production of poles, railway sleepers and other outdoor applications. It is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens and large landscaped areas for its beautiful silhouette and attractive foliage. It is also used for reforestation because of its ability to grow in a variety of soil and climate conditions.