Italian Stone Pine (Pine Nut)

Pinus pinea Origin: Italy Improvement status: Landrace Seeds per packet: ~10 Germination tested 08/2024: 75% Life cycle: Perennial We are very excited to be offering these very special imported Italian stone pine seeds this year. We haven't met a pine nut we don't enjoy, but there is something extra special about the Italian pinoli nuts, famous for their use in Italian pastries and as one of a few key ingredients in the classic pesto sauce. Italian stone pines are not only delicious, but stately and beautiful trees, with an iconic umbrella-like shape. Unfortunately these trees are only reliably hardy to Zone 8, so they won't grow well in most of the US, but we do think it's worth trying them in parts of Zone 7, especially as the planet continues to warm. Additionally, Italian stone pine makes an excellent bonsai tree — and if you wait long enough, you might even get one to produce some nuts! These seeds were imported from Italy by our friends at Sheffield's Seed Company in Locke, NY.GR