Scots pine
A pine ranging from Europe to Siberia and northern Anatolia; no nectar, but resin for propolis. In central Europe aphid honeydew adds to forest honey in some years.
- Nectar
- None
- Pollen
- Low
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Height
- 20-35 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
🐝 Add to my apiary
Log in to add it to your apiary.Value for beekeeping
Scots pine is one of the most widely distributed pines in the world, ranging from Scotland to Siberia and, in Turkey, to high, cold mountains such as those of northern Anatolia and around Sarıkamış. It is easy to recognise by its orange bark. It is wind-pollinated and gives no nectar.
Flowering
In May-June the male cones release plenty of yellow pollen. Bees collect it rarely, and usually only when there is no other source.
Honey and pollen
In central and northern Europe, pine aphids living on Scots pine produce honeydew in some years, which ends up in forest honey; it is not as regular or important as spruce and fir honeydew. In Turkey no significant honeydew flow from Scots pine is known.
Note for the beekeeper
Bud and wound resin is a good source for propolis. The value of Scots pine forests for beekeeping comes largely from the heathers, raspberries and upland flowers in the understorey and in clearings. To spot honeydew years, check the trees for aphids and sticky needles.