How can you identify a Scots pine?

Scots pine trees are known to grow up to 35m, and as evergreens, they keep their needle-like green leaves all year round. They are found in abundance in the Caledonian Pine Forest in the Scottish Highlands, but Scots pine can be found all over the UK, growing in woodlands and increasingly being used as ornamental trees in landscaping.

The easiest way to identify a Scots pine is by its fruit. Traditional pinecones with a raised circular bump in the middle of each scale mature in the autumn before falling to the ground. Only the female flowers of the Scots pine grow into pinecones, which can be identified by their small, red-purple appearance at the end of new shoots. Male flowers also grow on the same trees, but as clusters of yellow anthers, often at the base of shoots.

Most Scots pines will live to around 70 years, but some ‘Granny Pines’ have been studied by experts who found that they were over 600 years old! The older the tree, the more plates and fissures you will see on its bark. Younger trees will have fewer fissures, but will still have the iconic orange-brown scaly bark associated with conifers all over the world.

How does Scots pine support wildlife?

Scotland is home to some of the rarest and most beautiful animals in the UK, and the Scots pine is crucial to their survival. They are home to species like capercaillie, Scottish crossbills, pine martens, red squirrels and the elusive Scottish wildcat. In fact, Scots pine trees are so integral to the Scottish ecosystem that they are classed as a priority habitat under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, set out by the government in 1994. In all, the Scots pine supports around 1,600 species, and 215 of those are only found on the branches, leaves and trunks of Scots pine trees.

The high biodiversity value of the Scots pine comes from its ability to house and feed so many species. For example, the tree’s fertilised flowers provide food for red squirrels and other small mammals, especially before they turn into pinecones. As needles age and drop off, wood ants will pick them up, ready to use them to build their nests. Ospreys and golden eagles are also known to utilise the thick, protective branches to nest, particularly in the Scottish highlands, where osprey sightings are often tracked by scientists.

In southern and eastern England, Scots pine trees are the main foodplant for the pine hawk-moth caterpillars, who rely on the trees for sustenance before they pupate. Their population in the UK is in decline, making the presence of Scots pine in England more important than ever.

What is the cultural significance of the Scots pine?

In 2014, the Scots pine was voted the national tree of Scotland, beating the rowan and holly by a landslide. It is clear that the Scots pine is an incredibly important tree to Scottish people, and this has been true through the ages. Back when Celtic warriors protected Scotland’s borders, Scots pine trees were planted as markers for their graves. It is believed this is due to the tree’s durability and strong presence on the horizon, much like a warrior.

Scots pine trees are also indispensable to those who practice alternative medicine. Herbal tea made from their needles has been known to act as an effective decongestant and has antiseptic properties. The popular essential oil turpentine is made from Scots pine sap and plays a key role in alternative medicine all over the world. Scots pine herbal tea is also ideal for the mind, and it’s no wonder some cultures view the Scots pine as a symbol of good health and vitality!

How are pinecones used?

The traditional, familiar pinecones dropped by Scots pine trees have become a staple in home decor circles in the 21st century, especially in autumn and winter when we are likely to see them on the ground. The popularity of bringing the outside in has seen a boost in people scattering pinecones around the house, including them in floral arrangements, and even using them to make their Christmas trees look a little more authentic.

Pinecones are also incredibly useful for gardeners and houseplant parents. Broken up, pinecones make marvellous mulch, hanging on to moisture and taking a while to decompose. It’s unlikely you’ll need to replace it quickly. They also make a natural slug repellent for home growers and allotment gardeners. If you’re looking to support the wildlife in your garden, pinecones can be turned into an eco-friendly bird feeder with just a bit of peanut butter and a few seeds. They’re also a great addition to bug hotels, especially for spiders and ladybirds who enjoy hiding among the scales.

What does the future of Scots pine look like?

It’s clear that Scots pine trees have a crucial role to play in our modern world. Being as hardy, drought-tolerant and windfirm as these trees are, they are ready to face the elements as we face hotter summers and more extreme weather events in the winter, especially in areas where Scots pine trees are prevalent. Scots pines are able to regenerate in poor soils, so they make an ideal option for urban planting, even in polluted areas. Because these trees are relatively suited to life in the UK, they are being utilised more and more in ornamental settings, which also benefits urban wildlife species.

Now you’ve discovered all the incredible ways Scots pine trees affect the UK’s biodiversity, you can help us continue to ensure they are allowed to thrive in abundance. Whether you join us for community tree planting days or support our various appeals, you can make a difference to the future of trees, including the Scots pine!