Pinus wallichiana Seeds | Himalayan Pine
LATIN NAME: Pinus wallichiana
COMMON NAME: Himalayan Pine, Bhutan Pine, Wallich Pine
Plant Profile
Pinus wallichiana, commonly known as Himalayan Pine, is a large, evergreen conifer in the pine family, native to himalaya, karakoram and hindu kush mountains, from eastern afghanistan east across northern pakistan and India to Yunnan in southwest China. The Bhutan pine is a majestic tree of the high Himalaya, and its long, drooping needles give it a soft and graceful beauty. Established plants reach around Fifty metres. Not many plants ask so little and repay so much.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the pine family, Pinus wallichiana contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Species has also been studied in horticulture, since it is one of the most beautiful of the pines, prized for its long, drooping needles, and it is grown in parks and large gardens in suitable climates. Species like this one find a second career as research material, especially in propagation and breeding work.
Uses & Benefits
Himalayan Pine brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Ecologically, the Bhutan pine is a keystone of the Himalayan forest. Its cones and seeds feed birds and small mammals, its broad evergreen crown gives shelter, and its deep roots hold steep mountain slopes and protect watersheds, while it is a majestic presence in high valleys. Its economic value is real and considerable. Once it has its roots down, it more or less looks after itself.
Pines are a materia medica of their own: vitamin-C-rich needle teas saved explorers from scurvy, pine pollen is a tonic food in China, bark proanthocyanidins are studied for circulation, and resin gave turpentine, rosin and naval stores to history.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Himalayan Pine, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray bright light. Move strong seedlings into individual pots, keep them in good light, and set them out when the weather and their size agree.
Our Take
Among the Pinus group, it is one of the more distinctive species in cultivation. In a sunny, freely drained position it needs little looking after.
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