The European Black Pine, known as Pinus nigra, is a variable species of pine found all across southern Mediterranean Europe. From Spain to the eastern Mediterranean in Turkey, and even in North Africa, it thrives anywhere from sea level up to 6,500 ft in elevation. This large, evergreen coniferous tree is ornamental, used for landscaping, and valued for its lumber, which is great for rough carpentry and furniture making. It grows 65-200 ft high, spreading 20 to 40 feet wide when mature, and grows moderately fast, about 12-24 inches per year. Withstanding various industrial pollutants, Pinus nigra thrives in full sun, and is resilient against snow, ice and drought, making it suitable for various soil types and conditions. Notably resistant to maritime exposure, it's also widely used as a street tree thanks to its resistance to road salt. With some trees living over 500 years, this enduring symbol of strength and longevity is as beautiful as it is tough.