Pinus patula aka Jelecote Pine

Pinus patula is an evergreen tree in the pine family, Pinaceae. Common names include Mexican weeping pine and Mexican yellow pine. It comes from central and southern Mexico. There, it grows in highland forests with conifers or broad-leaved trees. These forests lie at 4,920–9,840 feet [1,500–3,000 metres]. Its native climate ranges from subtropical to temperate. Useful Tropical Plants reports its conservation status as Least Concern, citing a 2013 assessment.

The crown starts cone-shaped and becomes domed with age. The trunk is often straight, with a long, branch-free section. Useful Tropical Plants gives a usual height of 39–98 feet [12–30 metres]. Some trees reach 131 feet [40 metres]. The RHS lists garden trees above 39 feet [12 metres]. It gives a spread of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Growth is fast, though the RHS allows 20–50 years to maturity.

Long, thin needles droop from the branches and stay bright green. They can reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] long. Reddish bark contrasts with the green foliage. The curved seed cones turn pale brown. They reach about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] long. The tree has both pollen cones and seed cones. Wind carries the pollen, and Useful Tropical Plants lists it as not self-fertile. Its small, egg-shaped seeds have little documented food value for this species. A vanillin flavouring can come from pulpwood processing.

Grow this pine in full sun with shelter from cold, drying winds. It accepts chalk, clay, loam, or sand if water drains well. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. The RHS rates it H4 and records drought resistance. Young trees remain tender to frost and need shelter. Its native sites often have ample rain. Fog can supply moisture during the dry season. The RHS says it needs no routine pruning. Sow seed in containers in a cold frame during spring.

This pine supplies timber and serves in shade and wind-shelter planting. People also plant it to help hold soil in place. Its drooping foliage suits informal gardens and coastal sites. The needles can yield tan or green dye. Outside its native range, it has become invasive in some places. Pests include adelgids, conifer aphids, sawfly larvae, and pine shoot moth. Honey fungus and needle cast diseases can also affect it. The evidence does not establish a species-specific toxicity rating.