Traditionally, this species was the main source of resin extracted to obtain turpentine, and also rosin applied by musicians to the bows of wooden string instruments.

Native to western Mediterranean countries of southern Europe and parts of North Africa. Taxonomists believe there are at least five subspecies across this range.

Monoecious. Female cones mature over two years, but can delay opening for many years, often serotinous (i.e. prompted by wildfire).

Usually tall (35m) with a narrow crown and long, sinuous trunk, but prostrate when exposed to coastal winds. Bark deeply fissured with red-brown plates. Buds have outward-bending scale tips covered in silver hairs. Needles pale grey-green, in pairs, 12-25cm. Cones slender, 18cm, often clustered, scales with an upward prickle.

Light-demanding, with a preference for dry, sandy soils. Hardiness and tolerance of salt-laden winds has made it a popular choice in coastal conservation schemes. Seedlings rapidly develop a long taproot, complicating transplantation.

Can play an important role in conserving fragile dune habitats.

Fire is important to its natural ecosystems but, in dense plantations, can cause extreme wildfires, limiting use near dense populations. It is susceptible to pine wilt disease and to the Large Pine Weevil (Hylobius abietis).

Fast-growing producer of quality softwood used in construction. It has promise as a future productive species for forestry in warmer and drier areas of north-west Europe, especially under a warming climate.