Piņon: The Next Orchard Nut Crop?

Piñon are edible pinenuts produced by low-growing pines of western North America.   The primary species, out of as many as 14 species are: Pinus edulis, P. monophylla, and P. cembroides.  Piñon occur in seven southwestern states in the US, and throughout much of Mexico.  Piñon are nutritious and a popular ingredient in many recipes both as a main course and dessert.  However, harvesting occurs only in natural stands, which tend to have infrequent cone production.  Consequently, piñon availability is sporadic and prices tend to be high (>$20/kg in shell).  The objective of this paper is to discuss opportunities and obstacles to develop piñon as an orchard crop.  Topics include: species, natural distribution, seed sources, management practices, harvesting strategies, and nutritional benefits.