Pinus cembra – Arolla pine, Swiss stone pine

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Pinaceae

Pinus cembra – Arolla pine, Swiss stone pine

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Native to the mountain regions of Central Europe and Northern Asia, where the tree grows to extreme heights. When young, P. cembra grows straight upwards and narrowly pyramidal, later it broadens with a flattened top and slightly hanging branches. It usually forms several tops. The lower branches remain full if the tree has ample free space around it. Pinus cembra is a slow grower that can grow to become up to 1,000 years old. The smooth, grey-green bark becomes grooved and dark later. Young twigs are initially yellowish brown and velvety but turn orange-brown later. The fairly stiff, erect needles grow in bundles of 5 together. They are bluish green and have bluish white stomata on the inside. Cones do not appear until after 70 - 80 years. This Pinus is resistant to urban climates and requires a site with ample light.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
High (2)
Specifications
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Height
10 - 15 (25) m, slow growing
Width
4-8m
Crown
initially narrow, later broad pyramidal, half-open crown
Bark and branches
grey-green bark, smooth, later grooved, orange-brown twigs
Leaf
straight stiff needles, 5 together, dark bluish green, 5 - 12 cm , evergreen
Flowers
unremarkable, ♂ reddish brown, ♀ purple, fragrant flowers
Fruits
upright cones, 5 - 8 cm, do not appear until after 70 - 80 years
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
all types, nutritious, well-permeable
Paving
tolerates no paving
Winter hardiness zone
3 (-40,0 to -24,5 °C)
Wind resistance
very good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind
Fauna tree
provides food for birds
Application
tree containers, roof gardens, industrial areas
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem, clearstem conifer, specimen conifer
Origin
Central Europe, Northern Asia
Clear stem conifer Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree Specimen conifer acid soil clay soil loamy soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates no paving light-loving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) can withstand wind broad conical 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown bluegreen green orange/red slow growing provides food for birds non-toxic (usually) Ornamental fruit Fragrant flowers
Applications and inspiration
Winter hardiness: different from tree to tree
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Frequently asked questions
Pinus cembra

Pinus cembra can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 (25) m, slow growing, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Pinus cembra is slow growing and can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 (25) m, slow growing, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The right time to plant Pinus cembra is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Pinus cembra with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Pinus cembra blooms in may.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.