Stone Pine

Stone Pine, also known as the Italian Pine or Pinus pinea, is a majestic evergreen tree prized for its beautiful umbrella-shaped canopy and delicious edible pine nuts. Native to the Mediterranean, it’s both ornamental and productive—bringing a touch of European charm to Australian gardens. The pine nuts, harvested from mature cones, are a gourmet ingredient used in pesto, baking, and Mediterranean cooking.

Features:

Ideal Prune Height: 4–6m (can be kept compact with pruning)

pH Growing Conditions: 6.0–7.8

Shade or Full Sun: Prefers full sun

Minimum Pot Year 5: 75–100L

Time to Cone Production: 8–12 years (earlier in ideal conditions)

Interesting Notes: Stone pine is hardy, drought-tolerant, and thrives in sandy or well-drained soils—perfect for Perth’s Mediterranean climate. The cones take about 3 years to mature, but the reward is worth the wait: buttery, protein-rich pine nuts with a mild, sweet flavour. Its sculptural form makes it just as stunning as it is useful.

Bring a slice of the Mediterranean to your garden with this iconic tree—beautiful, long-lived, and productive for generations to come.

Keywords: Stone pine, Italian pine, Pinus pinea, pine nuts, Mediterranean tree, edible nuts, drought tolerant, ornamental evergreen, Perth gardens