Chinese White Pine

Chinese White Pine

Chinese White Pine Nut Tree is a member of the white pine group, Pinus subgenus Strobus, and like all members of that group, the leaves (‘needles’) are in fascicles (bundles) of five, with a deciduous sheath. They are 8–20 cm long. The cones are 9–22 cm long and 6–8 cm broad, with stout, thick scales. The seeds are large, 10–16 mm long and have only a vestigial wing; they are dispersed by Spotted Nutcrackers. The cones mature in their second year, this is a juvenile female cone.

Pinus armandii seeds are harvested and sold as pine nuts. These nuts are responsible for “Pine Mouth Syndrome”. The wood is used for general building purposes; the species is important in forestry plantations in some parts of China. It is also grown as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens in Europe and North America. The scientific name commemorates the French missionary and naturalist Armand David, who first introduced it to Europe.

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Latin Name: Pinus armandii
Site and Soil: Our Pine species like full to half-day sun and well- drained soil.
Pollination Requirements: Chinese White Pine Nut Tree is self-fertile.
Hardiness:  Is hardy to 0º F. or below.
Bearing Age: 5 years or more after planting.
Size at Maturity: Up to 115 ft. in height.
Bloom Time: April-May
Ripening Time: Seed Maturity Sep-Oct of 2nd year.
Yield: 20+ lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Our Pines have not been bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: 6-9
Sunset Western Zone: 8-9, 12-24, h1
Sunset Northeast Zone: Not listed