Pinus culminicola aka Cerro Potos Pine

Pinus culminicola is an evergreen tree in the pine family, Pinaceae. Its common name is Cerro Potosi pinyon. It comes from Coahuila and Nuevo León in Mexico. Kew places it in a tropical mountain climate. Plants For A Future describes cloud forest above 9,840 feet [3,000 metres]. That source gives a narrower range than Kew's two-state record. The tree keeps its foliage throughout the year.

This pine grows slowly and reaches about 16 feet [5 metres]. Plants For A Future lists it for the woodland garden canopy. The same source says it cannot grow in shade. A sunny site therefore matters more than that garden label. Each tree can bear both male and female reproductive structures. Wind carries the pollen between them. The source describes the species as not self-fertile. Seed from self-pollination tends to grow poorly. Its cones open while still attached and release their seeds. The seeds ripen in October.

Choose a light soil that lets excess water drain away. Sandy or gravelly loam suits this tree. It can also grow in soil with few nutrients. It accepts mildly acid to neutral ground. Poorly drained moorland soil does not suit it. Dry or moist soil can both support growth. Once established, the tree withstands drought and hot, dry sites. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 6–9. It describes mature plants as fully hardy in Britain. Young plants have less cold tolerance, at about 27°F [−3°C].

Seed offers a way to raise new plants. Sow fresh seed in separate pots in a cold frame. Late winter is another sowing time. Stored seed may benefit from six weeks at 39°F [4°C]. Plants For A Future advises moving young trees into place early. Their sparse roots make early planting important for later growth. It also advises shelter during the first winter or two.

The oil-rich seeds are edible either raw or cooked. They have a resin-like taste. The needles can supply tan or green dye. Rain can wash compounds from the needles into the soil. These compounds can reduce seed germination in some nearby plants. This trait may affect what grows beneath the tree. Plants For A Future records no weed potential for this species.