These cones, sitting at 90 degrees to the tree with their 4-sided scales, help identify a Scots Pine. The Scots Pine is probably the most common coniferous tree in the world because it has been so popular with landscapers and gardeners. Most North American trees are from "poor" seed stock producing shorter trees without a straight trunk, suitable for landscaping. The European trees are usually tall with straight trunks that produce useful wood. Most Scots Pine trees have darker needles than the tree in this photograph, often with a bluish tinge.
Pine Cones
