Mexican Nut Pine

(Pinus cembroides)

Mexican Nut Pine (Pinus cembroides)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Pinus cembroides image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Pinus cembroides, commonly known as Mexican Nut Pine or Pinyon Pine, is an evergreen tree native to arid and semi-arid regions including open woodlands, scrubby areas, and rocky hillsides in Mexico and the Southwestern United States. It is a small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching 8 meters (26 ft) to 20 meters (66 ft) in height with a trunk diameter of up to 50 centimeters (20 in). The bark is dark brown, thick, and deeply fissured at the base, providing a rugged appearance. This species is particularly notable for its edible seeds, known as pine nuts, which are harvested and used in various culinary applications.

Mexican Nut Pine is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and as an ornamental tree in arid landscapes. It is also used for reforestation in its native range due to its adaptability. The tree’s compact size makes it a good choice for smaller gardens, and it can be grown as a bonsai. It requires full sun exposure and well-drained soils, preferably sandy or rocky, with low to moderate water once established. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to pine beetles and scale insects.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 20-50 feet
  • Width: 15-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions including open woodlands, scrubby areas, and rocky hillsides in Mexico and the Southwestern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Mexican Pinyon, Pinyon Pine, Nut Pine, Stone Pine, Mexican Stone Pine, Nuß-Kiefer, Mexikanische Nußkiefer, Pinon, Pino Piñonero, Pino Prieto

Scientific Names: , Pinus cembroides, Pinus johannis, Pinus cembroides var. cembroides,

GBIF Accepted Name: Pinus cembroides Zucc.