Native to Europe and Asia, Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) is found from Scandinavia south through central Europe and west into Russia. Isolated populations occur in mountainous regions in the Balkans and Caucuses, the Pyrenees and across northern Turkey. In its namesake Scotland, the Scots pine is also found in remnant populations, as the ancient Caledonian forest that once blanketed the Scottish highlands has dwindled to a fraction of its original size.

Pinus sylvestris bark

This widely planted pine becomes a picturesque tree as it matures, with spreading branches and outstanding orange bark. Pinus sylvestris is also grown as a Christmas tree. It is hardy from zone 3 to 6 (marginal in zone 7 due to heat), and thrives in full sun locations. Medium length blue-green needles (1-3") with a slight twist are held in pairs, and the cones are egg-shaped with a pointy tip.

Pinus sylvestris 'Beuvronensis'

Cultivars of Scots pine have been selected for size, shape, and needle color. Low spreading  dwarf forms such as 'Albyns' and 'Hillside Creeper' can be ground hugging or grafted up on a standard. 'Beuvronensis' forms a flat globe and makes quite a statement grown on a 2-3' standard. It too is a dwarf, growing 3' every ten years. The broad pyramidal 'Watereri' has steel blue-green needles.

Pinus sylvestris 'Watereri'

Several cultivars of Pinus sylvestris turn yellow in the winter, creating a stunning display against a backdrop of white, green, blue, and brown. 'Aurea', 'Gold Coin', and 'Nirbeth's Aurea' start to turn yellow in late October, and hold that brilliant color until spring.

Pinus sylvestris 'Nirbeth's Aurea'

Pinus sylvestris can also be specially pruned and sculpted for use in Japanese gardens. Great examples can be viewed at Rockford's lovely Anderson Japanese Gardens. The versatile Scots pine offers gardeners options ranging from formal to wild and windswept, and from blue-green to stunning yellow.