Aleppo
PineAleppo
PineThis large, evergreen tree grows fairly rapidly (about two feet a year) to 50 feet and provides shade, which makes it difficult to grow anything under it. The surface roots extend beyond the crown to grab water. Needles, usually in bundles of two, are four inches long and a medium yellowish-green.
Hardy to about 13F.
Moderate to do well. Grows slower with less water. Young trees should not dry out in first year or two until roots are well established.
Part shade to full sun.
Tolerant of poor soils but good drainage is essential.
Periodic thinning or pruning and mulching. The fallen needs can serve as a natural mulch.
Can get Aleppo pine blight, indicated by browning of growing tips. Can be overcome with regular irrigation and mulch. Young trees must be firmly staked in windy areas.
Produces cones that are rounded and light brown. If cone production is heavy, the tree is declining.
Provides shade, skyline tree. Wind and dust screens. Overstory tree.
Member of the Pinaceae family. Legend has it this was the first Christmas tree, adopted by Europeans from the Greeks who decorated it with flowers and ribbons in honor of Attis.
Woodsy