Pinus maximartinezii aka Big Cone Pinyon

Pinus maximartinezii is an evergreen tree in the pine family, Pinaceae. Its common names include Martinez pinyon and Piñon Real. It comes from central Mexico, in southern Durango and southern Zacatecas. It grows in dry, open woods with oaks and other broad-leaved trees. These trees shed their leaves for part of the year. Its habitat lies at 5,740–7,875 feet [1,750–2,400 metres] above sea level. Two separate wild locations are known, though others may exist between them.

The listed height is about 39 feet [12 metres]. Some trees reach 52 feet [16 metres]. The crown spreads widely, with gaps between its uneven branches. A short, bent trunk gives the tree an irregular form. The trunk can measure 1.3–1.6 feet [0.4–0.5 metres] across. Young trees keep their blue foliage for several years. Growers in Mexico plant them as ornamentals for this trait. The low, branching trunk limits the tree's use for timber. People once gathered its wood for fuel.

Wind carries the pollen of this pine. Its cones hold large seeds that people eat raw or cooked. The seeds contain much oil and have a mild resin taste. They measure about 0.9–1 inch long. The source describes them as the largest seeds of any pine. Local people gather them for food and sell them in markets. Heavy seed collection also places pressure on wild trees. The edible seed record does not establish the safety of other parts.

This pine comes from a warm, subtropical to tropical climate. Rainfall in its habitat is estimated at 700–800 millimetres each year. Almost all of that rain falls within four summer months. The source suggests it may suit climates like the Mediterranean's. Cold tolerance varies with the seed's place of origin. Fully dormant trees from northern sites can withstand brief cold near −5°C. Trees from southern sites tolerate less cold. This is not a strongly cold-hardy tree.

The cited 2013 IUCN assessment lists this species as Endangered. Fire, heavy grazing, and soil loss threaten its small native range. These pressures leave few young trees able to take root. Grazing and erosion have reduced habitat quality in the main Zacatecas population. Heavy cone and seed harvests may further reduce its chances of renewal.