Pinaceae -- Pine family

    Frank Ronco, Jr.

    Pinyon (Pinus edulis) is a small, drought-hardy, long-lived tree  widespread in the southwestern United States. Its common name is derived  from the Spanish piñon which refers to the large seed of  pino (pine). For this reason the tree is known in the Southwest  and throughout its range by this Spanish equivalent (49). Other common  names are Colorado pinyon, nut pine, two-needle pinyon, and two-leaf  pinyon (50). Its heavy, yellow wood is used primarily for fuel. Because of  their delicate flavor its seeds are in much demand, making them its most  valuable product.