Description

Pinus wallichiana, also known as Himalayan pine, is a species of conifer in the Pinaceae family. It is an evergreen conifer. Its needles are grouped in pairs and are generally 5 to 10 cm long. They are dark green in colour and often have a silvery tinge on the underside. Medium to large in size, reaching heights of 30 to 50 metres in optimal conditions. It has a conical shape when young, becoming more irregular with age. Its bark is generally smooth and greyish when young, becoming cracked and scaly with age. Its cones are large, measuring between 12 and 20 cm in length. They are light to dark brown in colour and contain large winged seeds.

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Origin

The Himalayan pine is native to the mountainous regions of Asia, in particular the Himalayas and neighbouring regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, where it grows at altitudes of between 1800 and 4500 metres. It is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens and large estates. Its wood is used locally for construction, firewood and other domestic purposes. It is also valued for its strength and durability. As a species native to mountainous regions, it plays an important role in the ecosystem by providing shade, protecting soils from erosion and providing food and habitat for local wildlife.