Canary Island Pine
Pinus canariensis
- Native to:
- Canary Is.
Source: Wikimedia | License: Public domain | Artist: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Paul_venter" class="extiw" title="en:User:Paul venter">Paul venter</a>
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Coniferophyta | - Conifers
- Family:
- Pinaceae
- Genus:
- Pinus
- Species:
- Pinus canariensis
- USDA Symbol:
- PICA15
Growth Characteristics
- Height:
- 4000 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- mar,apr,may
Keystone Species Ranking
- Caterpillar Keystone:
- ★★★★★ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Nantucket pine tip moth (Rhyacionia frustrana)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Fragrant:
- Yes
- Fire Ecology:
- Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
- Fire Notes:
- Highly fire-adapted with thick, corky bark that insulates cambium. Resprouts vigorously from trunk and branches after fire damage, a trait unusual among pines.
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- sandy, volcanic, well-drained soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- native to Canary Islands' volcanic slopes
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- None required
- Germination Time:
- 14–28 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment. Optimal germination at 15-20°C.