Maritime Pine

pinus pinaster

Also known as: ["Cluster Pine","Amarillo Pine"]

Family: Pinaceae Genus: Pinus Category: Trees

Overview

A large, evergreen conifer native to the Mediterranean region, valued for its timber and resin.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Pinophyta
Class: Pinopsida
Order: Pinales
Family: Pinaceae
Genus: Pinus
Botanical Name: Pinus pinaster

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor planting in open areas with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily).

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young trees gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing or browning needles, poor growth, or root rot indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is essential; avoid shade; rotate trees for even growth.

Watering

every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam

pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 8–10; tolerates temperatures down to -10°C (14°F) but prefers mild winters.

Protect from extreme cold; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering for temperature changes.

Fertilizing

annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer

Fertilize only in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or stem cuttings (though cuttings are more challenging).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings in spring.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Transplant when rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds.

Environment

Warm (20–25°C), high humidity, and partial shade.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings.

Timeline

Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seedlings take 1–2 years to establish.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Thinning cuts to open the canopy; avoid topping the tree.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased branches, and improve air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches).

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.

Method

Use well-draining soil; trim roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage holes.

Suggestions

Not typically repotted; container-grown trees may need repotting every 2–3 years.

Checklist

Check root bound status; use fresh soil; water after repotting; avoid deep planting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the tree, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose for even moisture distribution and deep root penetration.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–14 days during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, needle drop, stunted growth, or browning of foliage.

Cold Stress

Prolonged cold or frost can damage needles and weaken the tree, making it susceptible to pests and diseases.

Solution: Plant in a sheltered location; use frost cloth in extreme cold; ensure good soil drainage to prevent root damage.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause needle scorch, wilting, and reduced growth.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply during heatwaves; mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check soil nutrients; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Pinus pinaster is not heavy feeder.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of needles in Pinus pinaster can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease, often resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall decline in tree health.

Wilting in Pinus pinaster is typically a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and potential mortality if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Pinus pinaster needles can be caused by various fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to premature needle drop, reduced photosynthesis, and overall decline in tree vigor.

Rotting in Pinus pinaster, particularly root or stem rot, is often caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to structural weakness, reduced nutrient transport, and eventual tree death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may suffer mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Pinus pinaster, including needles or resin. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion can lead to discomfort and digestive issues.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
needles resin
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from pine needles and resin. If ingestion is suspected, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Pinus pinaster, such as needles or resin. The compounds present can irritate the digestive system, causing discomfort but typically not severe poisoning.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
needles resin
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from chewing or ingesting pine needles or resin. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Pinus pinaster, commonly known as maritime pine, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The needles and resin may irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort. The toxicity is generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
needles resin
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming pine needles or resin. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Pinus pinaster toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the primary uses of Maritime Pine?

A: It is used for timber production, resin extraction, and landscaping.

Q: How does Pinus pinaster adapt to its environment?

A: It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils.

Quick Reference
Family: Pinaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 2–3 weeks during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Macedonian Pine
View
Serbian Spruce
View
Red Spruce
View
Atlas Cedar
View