97. Pinus sylvestris – Scots Pine
Scientific Name: Pinus sylvestris
Nativity: Eurasia
Interesting Info:
This is the only species of pine native to Great Britain. It is a two-needled pine, like our native lodgepole pine. The scots pine is a common Christmas tree– accounting for over 30% of all trees grown for that use. It is also commonly planted around fields and settlements in the Great Plains as a windbreak and to control erosion. In the 1980’s, the scots pine was used to measure the impacts of air pollution on plants. Essential oils that are extracted from the needles are used to treat respiratory ailments such as infections, asthma, and bronchitis. It is also a common ingredient of Bach flower remedies for its invigorating properties. The roots of the scots pine burn very well and have been used to replace candles in a pinch.
DBH: 21.9 inches