The Black or Corsican Pine Pinus nigra originates from the Mediterranean region. It has spread throughout the temperate regions and can withstand extreme frosts. It is fast growing making it popular in ornamental gardens although in some countries, where it has become naturalised, it is now regarded as an invasive species.
The bark is fissured and scaly and changes colour as the tree matures. As a young tree (under 40 years old) the bark is grey and less fissured but as the tree matures the bark develops pinkish, almost mother of pearl hues.
This tree sits in the centre of the Fellows’ Garden at Trinity College. It is approximately 130 years old and was planted as a sapling.
