Trees of Lebanon: Cedar, Pine, Oak, and Mediterranean Diversity

Iconic & Native Species

• Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani): National emblem; ancient high-mountain forests (e.g., Cedars of God, UNESCO site).
• Mediterranean/Stone Pine (Pinus pinea): Coastal/low mountains; edible pine nuts; umbrella crown.
• Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis): Drought-tolerant; rocky, dry slopes.
• Oaks (Quercus spp.): Evergreen (Q. ilex), deciduous (Q. cerris), kermes (Q. coccifera)—mixed woodlands.

Cultivated & Cultural Staples

• Olive (Olea europaea): Ubiquitous; economic/cultural cornerstone (oil, table olives).
• Fruit trees: Apple, pear, peach, apricot, cherry, citrus—in orchards nationwide.

Ecological Context

Lebanon's varied topography (coast, Mount Lebanon, Beqaa Valley, Anti-Lebanon) creates microclimates supporting a blend of Mediterranean and Irano-Turanian flora. Forests cover ~13% of land—remnants of once-vast cover.