Aleppo pine

Aleppo pine

The common forest tree

אורן ירושלמיPinus halepensis

The Aleppo pine is the most widely planted forest tree in Israel. It also grows wild in places such as the Jerusalem hills and the Carmel. It grows fast, tolerates thin, rocky soil, and gives a light shade. Foresters planted it in great numbers during the 20th century to cover bare hills. Its needles and resin burn easily, however, and forest fires are a recurring danger in dry summers. Newer plantings use a wider mix of trees, including oaks and carobs.

Glossary: Aleppo pine