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ForestHarvest: non-timber forest products in Scotland

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Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris)

Description

Large coniferous tree with reddish flaking bark and long needles in bunches.

Habitat

Native pine forests and plantations.

Uses

The cones are sometimes used for decorative purposes, and the needles for basketry.

Extracts from the bark and needles are used in cleaning agents, cosmetic products, soaps etc. One company in the Highlands has started extracting oil from logging waste to supply to commercial customers.

The resinous roots were formerly used as candles by poor people in the Highlands.

A handful of the shoot tips, added to the bath, is said to help relieve rheumatic pain and to improve the circulation.

 

Wild Harvests research - uses in Scotland today

Scots pine cones: used to provide craft materials for personal use

Scots pine roots: used to provide craft materials for personal use
Photo - closeup of Scots pine cone and needles

Image provided by William Milliken/RBGE

Links

More on Scots pine
SPECIES DIRECTORY