Pinus roxburghii

Pinus roxburghii is an evergreen tree that can grow from 30 to 50 meters tall; the bole is straight and cylindrical, it can reach over 300 cm in diameter. It grows in East Asia, in Himalayan regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, India, Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. It’s widespread and common in north-south oriented valleys, requires a sunny position and it’s found on a variety of substrates, from deep soil to bare rocks. The tree is harvested for local use as a food, medicine and source of materials. It is an important source of resin. Oil of turpentine, obtained from the oleo-resin of all pine trees, is a valuable remedy. The seeds can be eaten, raw or cooked. The tree is exploited for its timber and is also grown as an ornamental. The bark has a high tannin content (11-14%). The wood is moderately hard; it’s used for construction, furniture making, boxes and carpentry. It is also pulped for the paper industry.

One of the most important trees in forestry in India. The wood of this tree is the least preferred.