Maritime pines ( Pinus pinaster ) are very widespread, covering more than 10% of woodlands in France. They are part of the Pinaceae family. Originating from southwestern Europe, this species is common on the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts.
EcoTree mainly plants maritime pines in forests with sandy soils and low fertility. Oak trees planted under the cover of maritime pines face significantly less insect damage thanks to insect-eating birds which frequent maritime pines.
Maritime pines, as the name suggests, withstand sea spray and strong winds, meaning they're found mainly near the Atlantic and Mediterranean. They also help stabilise the dunes since they can bear sandy soil. The species is calcifuge, meaning they don't tolerate alkaline soils, and doesn't need lots of fertilizer, but is desperate for light and heat. Maritime pines thrive in poor but deep soils that drain well, preferably acidic and moist. They tolerate drought, but struggle in harsh winters. These pines are therefore very cold sensitive, which limits their natural progression north. Their plantation is planned between October and April, excluding the frost period of course.
Their dark red, hard, heavy, resinous heartwood and light sapwood characterise maritime pines. Slightly springy, they resist compression well, but aren't very flexible and crack easily. They can be worked, nailed, and painted easily. Their wood is used by carpenters and joiners, especially for wooden floors, but it's also used to make columns, boxes, and more. In the past, they've been harvested for their resin from which we get turpentine.
Sometimes called the "golden tree," the maritime pine is the embodiment of power, determination, and vital force due to the persistence of its foliage. This species is also symbolic of energy and vigour because of its resistance to winds and storms.
Thanks to its determined character, it's an original and lasting gift to give to someone as a graduation gift . Offer a maritime pine to your loved ones to mark their success, determination, courage, energy, and commitment to their career goals, schooling, apprenticeships, ambitions, and more.
Give a tree , the original graduation gift - an opportunity to congratulate your loved one while also making a gift to the environment ! Offer a maritime pine!
