Stankevich pine. Sevastopol
Stankevich
pine, also known as Sudak pine, grows on the slopes in the east of Crimea and
the southwest, in the Balaklava area. It is a relict endemic species listed in
the Red Data Book. The pine is named after the scientist Vaclav Stankevich.
This tree,
reaching up to 25 meters in height, has a sprawling, uneven crown with an
unusually whimsical shape, resembling mythical creatures. The branches are
horizontal, twisted, and resistant to strong winds. The pine is undemanding to
soil, surviving even on rocky cliffs and tolerating salty sea water.
This
species of conifer is found only in Crimea. The largest grove of Stankevich
pine on the peninsula is located in the "Novy Svet" nature reserve,
with about 5,000 specimens.
In the
past, Stankevich pine was very widespread in the region, but its valuable wood
led to it being nearly eradicated in pre-revolutionary times.
The pine
grows very quickly and reproduces by seeds, with the first cones appearing
after 15-20 years.
The plant
is well known for its medicinal properties. The volatile emissions of the pine
are beneficial for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases and have a
lethal effect on the tuberculosis bacillus. The pine is also used for resin
production.
Stankevich
pine is used for decorative landscaping and can often be seen in urban parks of
the resorts on the southern coast.
In 2014,
following an order from the Government of the Russian Federation, the first
stage of the nationwide "Alley of Russia" campaign took place. For
four months, residents of the country could participate in voting to select a
plant symbolizing various regions. As a result, Stankevich pine became the
green symbol of Sevastopol, receiving votes from 4,646 people.
Along with the RUSSIA EXPO, the flower festival is also coming to an end.
The "Future in Flowers" festival continues at the RUSSIA EXPO, where unique flowerbeds from all regions of our country can be seen at the "Space" pavilion until July 8.
The RUSSIA EXPO concludes on July 8, and with it, the flower festival will also come to an end.