Pinus pinea

Stone pine

Pinus pinea, commonly known as the stone pine, is a majestic Mediterranean conifer prized for its edible pine nuts. Beyond its culinary value, this resilient species holds significant medicinal potential, offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to holistic wellness and traditional therapeutic practices across Southern Europe.

  • Scientific name: Pinus pinea
  • Family: Pinaceae
  • Native range: Europe

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Pinidae. It is classified within the order Pinales and the family Pinaceae. Finally, its taxonomic identity is defined by the genus Pinus.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Pinidae WCVP
Order Pinales WCVP
Family Pinaceae WCVP
Genus Pinus WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Pinus pinea, is recognized by various regional names across different languages. In Basque, it is referred to as Pinazi-pinu, while in Polish, it is called sosna pinia. The Udmurt name for this species is Пиния, and in Hebrew, it is known as אורן הצנובר, whereas in French, it is commonly called Pin parasol.
Language Common Name Source
eu Pinazi-pinu Wikidata
pl sosna pinia Wikidata
udm Пиния Wikidata
he אורן הצנובר Wikidata
fr Pin parasol Wikidata
gl piñeiro manso Wikidata
et Piinia Wikidata
de Pinie Wikidata
el Κουκουναριά Wikidata
hsb Pinija Wikidata

Distribution

This plant, known as Pinus pinea, exhibits a specific geographical distribution across the Mediterranean region. It is widely found throughout Southwestern Europe, occupying diverse coastal and inland habitats. Within this region, its presence is well-documented in the Balearic Islands and the island of Corsica. The species also thrives extensively across the mainland territories of France and Portugal. Furthermore, it maintains a significant and widespread presence throughout the various landscapes of Spain.

Region Area Source
Southwestern Europe Baleares WCVP
Southwestern Europe Corse WCVP
Southwestern Europe France WCVP
Southwestern Europe Portugal WCVP
Southwestern Europe Spain WCVP
Southeastern Europe Albania WCVP
Southeastern Europe Greece WCVP
Southeastern Europe Italy WCVP
Southeastern Europe Kriti WCVP
Southeastern Europe Sicilia WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, known commonly as the stone pine, is highly valued for various components, though its wood is particularly significant in traditional and practical applications. The wood of Pinus pinea is characterized by its straight grain and relatively light weight, making it a useful material for construction and carpentry. Beyond its structural utility, the wood contains resinous compounds that have historically been studied for their chemical properties. While the edible seeds are often the most famous medicinal and culinary product, the woody parts of the tree contribute to the overall ecosystem and provide the essential framework for the production of its many beneficial derivatives.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
1
Plant Part Sources Confidence
wood 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Chemicals

Pinus pinea has 4 reported phytochemicals identified across 4 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include K+, Na+, NaCl, monoterpenes.

Total chemicals
4
Scientific sources
4

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
K+ 1 ★☆☆☆☆
Na+ 1 ★☆☆☆☆
NaCl 1 ★☆☆☆☆
monoterpenes 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Medicinal Uses

Pinus pinea has 1 reported medicinal uses identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include wound healing.

Total uses
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Uses

Use Sources Confidence
wound healing 1 ★☆☆☆☆