Other Names: soft pine, Eastern white pine, Northern white pine, and Weymouth pine
Number of Species: Over 90 species of coniferous evergreen trees
Family: Pinaceae
Genus/Species: Pinus strobus
Needle: Clusters of needles with 5 per cluster, each needle 3–5 inches in length. The needles of white pines are very soft to the touch and flexible.
Bark: Gray to brown, smooth when young and furrowed with age.
Cones: Brown when mature, long and curved, 4–8 inches in length with pointed white tips
Magickal Properties and Lore: Protection, spell breaking, longevity, purification, fertility, exorcisms, healing, money. Pine is an all-purpose magickal tree. Carry pinecones to increase longevity and fertility. Burn needles to purify and cleanse an area of unwanted negative energies, or spread the needles on the ground to ward off evil spirits. Burn the needles to break or reverse a curse or spell. Place a pine branch over or near the bed to ward off sickness and bad dreams. Carry or burn the sawdust for any of the above. Essence of pine is relaxing and will ease stress and tension, promote insight and intuition, and develop self-confidence. Pinewood makes a great wand or staff.
Practical Uses: The white pine is a favorite nesting tree for bald eagles. Pines are an important and valued source of timber and many species produce edible seed (or nuts) that can be eaten raw or roasted into breads or cakes.
Medicinal Properties: Pine nuts provide potassium, magnesium, carotene, and vitamin E. Needles can be used for teas, ointments, or bath water to soothe coughs, congestion, breathing, circulation, or as a disinfectant or diuretic.