Pinus nigra, also known as black pine or Austrian pine, is a hardy evergreen coniferous tree that forms a tall, dome-shaped head of irregular, dense branches clothed in long green needles that are up to 12cm long. The architectural shape and evergreen foliage provide structure and interest all year round. The bark of the trunk is deeply fissured. Cones are large, up to 8cm long, and may fall from the tree or remain on the branches for several years. Pinus nigra is not native to the UK, originating from countries in Southern Europe that include Austria, northern Italy, and the Balkan regions.
Pinus nigra tolerates wind exposure and salt-laden winds, making it particularly good as a windbreak tree in coastal areas. Because of its ultimate size, and because Pinus nigra is not suited to pruning to restrict its growth, it’s only suitable for very large gardens where there is space for it to grow. The most compact forms of Pinus nigra tree are useful for courtyard gardens and Oriental themed planting schemes. Site in a location that gets sun for at least half the day.
Pinus nigra tolerates a wide range of soils including clay, sand, and chalk. Avoid planting on ground liable to waterlogging.
Types of Pinus nigra
Austrian pine or black pine (Pinus nigra) – a large, fast-growing variety, initially pyramidal in shape but later developing a wide crown and bare trunk with fissured, dark grey bark. Dark green, pointed needles grow in pairs. Small, yellow flowers are followed by dark green, pointed cones, maturing to light brown. Height x Spread: 30m x 8m
Pinus nigra ‘Green Tower’ – a narrow, slow-growing variety with smaller dark green needles than the species. H x S: 3m x 50cm
Pinus nigra 'Pierrick Brégeon' – a compact pine, suitable for rockeries, which forms a flattened dome shape. H x S: 2m x 1.2m
Pinus nigra ‘Oregon Green’ – a slow-growing variety that forms an upright, asymmetric plant with rich green needles. H x S: 3m x 3m
Frequently asked questions
How big do Pinus nigra varieties get?
The species can grow to 30m in height but named varieties are much more compact. For example, ‘Green Tower’ grows to around 2m high while ‘Oregon Green’ reaches 3m in height. One of the smallest is ‘Hornibrookiana’ which grows to just 1m in height.
Can you prune Pinus nigra?
Regular pruning of Pinus nigra is not recommended as it would spoil the attractive shape of its irregular head of branches.
