Additional Info

• Where does this species come from?

  Mediterranean

  What is its invasive status in South Africa?

  Existing legislation: CARA 2002 – Category 2 NEMBA – Category 2

  Where in South Africa is it a problem?

  Eastern Cape and Western Cape

  How does it spread?

  Spreads by seed dispersal from the cones

  Why is it a problem?

  Competes with and replaces indigenous species. Dense stands can reduce water runoff and stream flow from mountain catchments, reduce grazing, and pose a fire hazard which threatens the survival of indigenous animal and plant species

  What does it look like?

  General description: Coniferous tree 5-15m high; conical with a short trunk when young, rounded to oblong with a crooked trunk when older and having an crown open with numerous slender branches. The bark is silvery-grey becoming darker. Leaves: Needles, grey-green to yellow-green, in bundles of two, short, 40-80mm long, slender and stiff. Flowers: Does not produce flowers. Fruit/Seeds: Produce reddish-brown, glossy, woody, conic-ovoid, 80-100mm long, clustered on stout, reflexed stalks; cone scales flat or slightly raised along a transverse ridge

  Does the plant have any uses?

  Used for shelter, poles, firewood