Mexican pinyon, Mexican Nut Pine
Pinus cembroides

Family: Pinaceae

What it is like

A small tree. It grows to 8 m high. It spreads 4.5 m wide. The crown is rounded. The leaves are short and grey-green. The cones are pale yellow and oval.

There are over 100 species of Pinus.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. Plants will grow on most soils. They need wind protection. It does well in arid soils. It cannot tolerate temperatures below -5°C. It suits hardiness zones 7-8.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, Central America, India, Mexico, North America, South Africa, Southern Africa, USA

How it is used for food

The seeds are eaten fresh or roasted. They are also ground into flour and used in cakes. They are also made into nut butter.

It is an important food source. The edible nuts are high in protein.

Edible parts

Seeds, nuts

How it is grown

Plants are easily grown.

Trees grow slowly. They take 20 years to produce significant crops. Often they only produce a significant crop every 3-4 years.

Its other names

Local names

Pino pinonero, Two-leaved Nut-pine

Synonyms

Pinus fertilis Roezl; Pinus futilis Sarg.;