KEDROGRADSKY

Kedrogradsky pine (Pinus gerardiana) – is a unique tree native to the high-altitude regions of Pakistan, China, and India, where it grows at altitudes from 1800 to 3500 meters above sea level. In Ukraine, it survives winter successfully without covering, and 1.5 L pots have already endured three seasons of wintering. The tree reaches a height of 10 to 25 m; branches are straight, needles – spiny, 6–10 cm long, collected in bundles of three thorns. Cones are long (10–18 cm) and wide, and seeds are large, with a wing, making them valuable as food, rich in vitamins and carbohydrates.

Kedrogradsky pine is distinguished by high frost resistance and the ability to adapt to different soil conditions. It prefers drained acidic or slightly acidic soils, but can also grow in neutral soils. The tree is sun-loving, tolerates drought and open places well, as well as slight shading. At 10 years old, the crown width is 3–4 m, and height is 7–10 m, which makes it suitable for both individual plantings and group compositions.

A feature of Kedrogradsky pine is not only its decorative appearance: its nuts are considered among the most expensive in the world. Seeds differ in size (18–23 mm), rich flavor, and high content of useful substances, making them in demand both in the food industry and among gourmets. Due to these properties, the tree is valued not only for aesthetic appeal but also for the practical benefits brought by its nuts.