aleppo pinePinus halepensis

Common: Aleppo pine, Mediterranean pine, Jerusalem pine
Family: Pinaceae
Origin: Mediterranean regions
Light: Full sun
Soil: Useful in poor soils and arid climates
Temperature: Tender when young; established trees can take near zero temperatures Thrives in desert heat, aridity and wind; good at seashore.

A small grove provides a cooling, pine-forest effect. Excellent windbreaks and screens. Grows quickly to a height of 30-50 feet. Drop their lower branches so that trunk is visible. Rounded habit. Attractive as 2 yr. old, rugged character as 5 yr. old. In age, open irregular crown of many short, ascending branches.

Needles usually in bundles of two, 2-1/2 to 4 in., light green. Cones, 3 in. oval to oblong, reddish to reddish-brown. Can be bothered by mites in Southern California. Aleppo pine blight is also a nuisance, and is indicated by the browning of growing tips.

One of the best fast-growing trees for desert areas. The Greeks traditionally cut down an Aleppo pine every year, decorating it with flowers and ribbons in honor of the god Attis. This custom is believed to have been adopted by the Europeans in honor of Christ, making the Aleppo the first Christmas tree.

 

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