Features
Pinion pine is one of the easiest wood species to light; sometimes all that is needed is a match, due to its high resin content throughout the wood and on the bark.
Warnings
wood burning stove image by Paula Gent from
Fotolia.com
Once pinion pine has caught, it burns like gasoline, giving off an enormous amount of heat quickly. Be wary of the possibility of a chimney fire if you are using this wood in a wood-stove or fireplace.
Considerations
Due to the fact that pinion blazes extremely hot, care must be taken not to build too high a fire because of the danger of spitting and crackling, enhancing the risk of igniting nearby combustibles.
Prevention/Solution
Always make a mental note of local laws regarding campfires, especially in our national parks and forests. Fire restrictions exist to protect our natural beauty and life and property by preventing the risk of forest fires.
Fun Facts
Native Americans held the fruit of the pinion pine tree in high esteem for its yield of pine nuts, which were crushed fine and used in breads and pies. Placing the pinion pine cone next to the campfire opens the cone, making the pine nut easy to pick or shake out from the scales.
Article Written By Victoria Ries
Victoria Ries is a freelance writer whose work has been published in various print magazines, including "Guideposts," "BackHome," New Homesteading" and "Mother Earth News." Ries enjoys working on diverse topics such as travel, animal rescue, health and home business. Ries is currently working on her B.A. in psychology.