Pine is a coniferous tree in the genus Pinus, in the family Pinaceae. There are about 111 species of pines worldwide, although different authorities accept between 105 and 125 species.

The oldest tree species is the Great Basin bristlecone pine, with many trees dating back around 4,000 years. The oldest tree is named Methuselah and it dates back nearly 5,000 years.

Softwood conifers include pine, spruce, fir, and cedar trees. But despite the name, wood hardness varies among the conifer species. Some softwoods are actually harder than certain hardwoods.