Stone pine

This type of woodland is typical of all of the Mediterranean strip. The stone pine (Pinus pinea) copes very well with dry weather and fires because of its thick bark and a crown which is well above the ground, meaning that, in some cases, the fire passes underneath. In addition, in the event of fire, the pine cones open as a result of the heat and disperse the seeds a long way so that the species can sprout again.

This is the only species of pine, along with Pinus edulis which originates from the USA, to produce edible seeds. Pine nuts have many and varied uses: they are used for making sauces, stews and sausages, such as blood sausages, but they are also used for making traditional panellet deserts and other cakes.