The Pine tree also called Pinus or Föhre in german, can mostly be found in the northern Hemisphere but it also grows in southern and tropical parts of the planet.
It can grow up to 80 metres in height and some pine species‘ needles can reach a length of 50 centimetres making them a valuable material for basket weaving and other crafts. Additionally the Needles can be used to brew a vitamin rich tea and pine nuts are a popular cooking ingredient in different cuisines all around the globe.
But apart from that the pine is one of the most important trees in the timber industry world wide, based on the fact that it grows fast and shows great versatility when it comes to growing in different climates and locations. Yet its flammable resin make pine forests more susceptible to forest fires.
The tree holds a special position in asian Culture. In China, Japan and Korea for example, the evergreen pine stands for steadfastness, longevity, patience and strength. Its an common motif in traditional chinese art, depicted in drawings and literature. Fittingly pine soot is a main ingredient of chinese ink.
The pine is also one of the three friends of the winter, another popular motif in asian culture that, besides the pine, features a plum tree and bamboo since these three plants flourish in the winter. Because of that it became a symbol for the new year in Japan.