Growing up to a heigh over over 30 metres, the Pinus patula, or Muchinda nugu in the Kikuyu language, is an evergreen tree that thrives in sandy or gravelly soil. It is essential in the production of timber and is incredible for use as fuel wood. Locally, its pine leaf oil can be used for medicinal baths or consumed as food or medicine. The flavor, however, is a mixed bag. Some find the Muchinda nugu quite enjoyable, others say it is too bitter. This tree yields an oleoresin which can be distilled to produce turpentine. Pitch can also be obtained and used for waterproofing, as a wood preservative.

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Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.

Revelation 4:11