Afghan Pine Tree Pinus eldarica

Afghan Pine Tree Pinus eldarica

Pinus eldarica (Mondel or Afghan Pine)

Mondels are commonly used as Christmas trees each year. They are easier to spot in the landscape because of their ladder-like branching structure. When young they look very similar to Aleppo pines. It's difficult to differentiate between them, but a difference to look out for is in the branch tips or candles.

The needles on a Mondel pine emerge from the candle as it elongates. So, the candle looks thick and lush as it grows and expands. An Aleppo pine appears more skinny, the needles do not fully emerge until after elongation. Mondels have two needles per fascicle that are generally between five and six inches long.

An Eldarica pine windbreak makes valuable cover, nesting and breeding areas for upland game and songbirds. In winter, seeds and fruits of trees and shrubs provide food for nonmigratory species.

Your plant will be shipped with the roots wrapped in damp paper towels and with plastic and ready to plant upon arrival. The plant will typicaly be approximately 10 to 12 inches in height.