Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris Scotica)

The lovely Pinus sylvestris is a huge evergreen tree that reaches a mature height of 15-20 metres. Mature trees can reach up to 35 metres and have a lifespan of up to 700 years.

With its towering trunk and fluffy crown, the Scots pine is the only native pine found in the United Kingdom. The bark is a scaly orange-brown colour that turns into plates and cracks with age, giving the rugged feature an appealing appearance. The needles are in pairs and have a blue-green colour, especially when they are young.

Although it thrives in most soil types, scots pine prefers well-drained soils; it can withstand heat and is frost-hardy, making it a good choice for urban settings.

Perfect for being underplanted with shrubs or perennials because it tolerates neighbouring plants and only throws light shadows.

Tree Attributes

Needles typically 1-3 inches long and occur in pairs
Fast growing tree, especially in their early years
They are very versatile when it comes to soils but prefer well drained
Has great timber which is highly sought after
Act as a great conduit for birds and mammals
Very hardy