Macedonian Pine Data Sheet

• Common name: Macedonian pine

• Latin name: Pinus Peuce

• Genus: Pinus

• Height: 65 m (213 ft)

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 1–7

• Conservation status: Near threatened

Pinus Peuce is commonly known as the Macedonian pine, is a conifer native to southeast Europe. Its range extends across Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia, Albania, Bulgaria and northern Greece.

This tree is generally found at medium altitudes, mostly from 600 m (1,970) to 2,200 m (7,220 ft).

Macedonian Pine is a large tree, growing up to 65 m (213 ft). The trunk diameter can exceed 1.5 m. The needles are formed in bunches of five and are a dark to medium green colour. Needles can extend from the branch up to 11 cm. The cones are slender and long, starting out a deep shade of green, maturing to a rusty, yellowish brown colour. The cones are scaled, containing large winged seeds.

The Macedonian pine is closely related to the Balkan pine, which all share many of its characteristics.

The wood from this tree is valued in construction, furniture making and wood-carving. The resin has been used to help heal wounds and deal with minor stomach complaints.

Macedonian pine lumber is of higher quality compared to other pine species and is sought after for construction, furniture making and wood carving. This tree is a popular choice for large gardens and parkland planting. It grows slowly.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment or stratification before sowing. Fill trays or pots with quality compost and firm down gently. Spread the seeds across the surface; around 25 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Keep compost damp, not soaking wet. Never allow it to dry out. Place pots or trays on a warm windowsill or in a warm conservatory. Germination should occur at 1–3 weeks.

Post Germination

Once seedlings appear, keep them in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of damping off disease. Place in bright conditions, a windowsill is ideal. Ensure the seedlings don't dry. Water logging should also be avoided; young trees hate wet feet. These seedlings are large and sturdy and will give you little hassle. They can be separated into their own 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside all year. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.

CAUTION: Slugs and snails love juicy young pines and spruce. Mice and blackbirds will destroy seeds and seedlings.

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