Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii)

Family: Pinaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Pinus roxburghii is an evergreen Tree growing to 40 m (131ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, and the seeds ripen in April. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour of turpentine and is only eaten as an emergency food. — Seed - raw or cooked.; Not very nice, it has a strong flavour of turpentine and is only eaten as an emergency food.; A reasonable size, the seed is up to 11mm long.; A sweet edible manna exudes from the bark and twigs.

Habitat & North American Range

Forms extensive forests to 2700 metres. Does best on north slopes or on good soils. (Zone 8)