Pinus Sylvestris - Scots Pine

Pinus sylvestris, commonly known as Scots Pine, is the only native British pine and one of the few native conifers. Found naturally in Scotland and on heathland in southern England, it is easily recognised by its distinctive orange flaking bark on the upper trunk.

Although now less frequently planted commercially due to the faster-growing Corsican Pine, Scots Pine remains an important species for forestry, conservation, and landscape planting.

The Scots Pine is not normally pruned. Remove damaged or diseased branches if required to maintain tree health.

This is the size and type we sell:

Pinus sylvestris Scots Pine 15–30cm Cell Grown

Pinus sylvestris Scots Pine 20–40cm Cell Grown

Professionally grown and suitable for woodland, shelterbelts, and specimen planting.

Features & Benefits

Only native British pine species

Distinctive orange-brown flaking bark

Blue-green slightly twisted needles

Hardy and tolerant of very low temperatures

Suitable for exposed sites

Valuable timber for multiple commercial uses

Strong wildlife and conservation value

Applications

Commercial forestry and plantations

Woodland creation schemes

Shelterbelts and windbreaks

Heathland restoration

Specimen tree in parks and large gardens

Height & Spread (Approximate)

After 10 years: 8m height x 3m spread

After 20 years: 12m height x 6m spread

Growth assumes suitable site conditions.

Botanical Name | Pinus sylvestris

Common Name | Scots Pine

Plant Type | Evergreen conifer

Growth Rate | Moderate

Mature Height | Up to 35m

Mature Spread | Up to 8m

Soil Type | Well-drained soils; not suitable for chalk

Aspect | Full sun

Hardiness | Extremely hardy; tolerant of exposed and cold conditions

Plant Size & Type | 15–30cm Cell Grown; 20–40cm Cell Grown

Maintenance | Generally not pruned

Wildlife Value | Provides nesting for Golden Eagle, Osprey, Goshawk; cones feed Siskin, Crossbill, Great Crested Tit, squirrels and small mammals