Pines

Pines are a genus of evergreen trees or shrubs. There are over 100 species of pine, native to every continent in the northern hemisphere. Owing to the quality of their timber, pines have been introduced into much of the southern hemisphere. As evergreens with needle-like leaves, they can grow in poor soils and harsh conditions. Most species are monoecious - they have separate male and female cones on the same tree. Many birds and mammals rely on the seeds and in return for this food supply help disperse the seeds, a job that can also be done by the wind.