Swiss Stone Pine
Pinus cembrafam. Pinaceae
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Pl. D92A — Pinus cembra
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IOverview
Overview
Swiss Stone Pine (Pinus cembra) is a tree native to the mountainous regions of Central Europe, including Austria, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Known for its edible seeds and documented medicinal uses, this pine species thrives in well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It can grow to heights of 15 meters and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) conditions. The tree's needles are long and slender, often growing in pairs, setting it apart from other pine species.
Quick answers
What is Swiss Stone Pine?
Swiss Stone Pine (Pinus cembra) is a tree native to the mountainous regions of Central Europe, including Austria, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Switzerland, and Ukraine.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Forest Harmony
stresstincture
Historically used for calming the mind and reducing stress.
Mountain Strength
focustea
Traditionally consumed to enhance mental clarity and focus.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Swiss Stone Pine thrives in light to moist conditions and prefers well-drained soils of medium texture, though it can tolerate heavier clay soils as well. It is hardy in temperate regions with zones 3-9, making it adaptable to various climates. This tree requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. For cultivation, ensure the soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. Propagation can be done through seeds, which are edible parts of the plant. Regular watering is necessary during dry periods, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Swiss Stone Pine for the first time
8steps
Start with Swiss Stone Pine as a simple, hardy tree for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Swiss Stone Pine seeds or saplings, potting mix if planting in containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Swiss Stone Pine in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, ensuring it's light, medium, or heavy as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant seeds about 2-3 cm deep in the ground or containers; keep saplings watered until established.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish roots. Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Swiss Stone Pine to maintain shape or remove dead branches; seeds can be harvested when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in unsuitable soil, neglecting pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil, Condiment
Other uses:DyeHerbicideoilResinLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 10 native· 1 introduced
Europe9 regions
native (8)AustriaFranceGermanyItalyPolandRomaniaSwitzerlandUkraine
introduced (1)Norway
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Pinaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Pinaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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