Pinus montezumae aka Montezuma Pine

Taxonomy

Pinus montezumae, also known as the Montezuma pine or ocote, is a coniferous tree native to Mexico and Central America. It can grow up to 35 meters in height and 80 centimeters in diameter, with a round crown and dark brown-grayish bark. This species is unique in that it has seven needles in each fascicle. It is found in mountain ranges such as the Sierra Madre Oriental and Sierra Madre Occidental, at altitudes ranging from 2000 to 3200 meters above sea level. Montezuma pine thrives in warm temperate to cool climates, with rainfall between 800 and 1000 mm per year. It can tolerate both summer-dominant and year-round rainfall patterns. The wood of this tree, known as ocote, is yellowish-brown white and is valued for its hardness and use in construction. The resin of the Montezuma pine is highly flammable and commonly used as a fire starter. It is a slow-growing tree in its early years but becomes fast-growing afterwards. It is also cultivated in plantations in various countries around the world. 'Sheffield Park' is a variety of Montezuma pine with greyish-green needles and ovoid to cylindrical brown cones. As a houseplant, Montezuma pine thrives in direct light and well-draining soil, requiring regular watering. Overall, Pinus montezumae is a rare and versatile species that adds beauty and functionality to its natural habitat and beyond.

Common names

Montezuma Pine, Rough Bark Mexican Pine, Rough Branched Mexican Pine

How to care for Montezuma Pine

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Montezuma Pine due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Montezuma Pine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Montezuma Pine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Montezuma Pine thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Rough Branched Mexican Pine.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Montezuma Pine is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia