Italian Stone Pine

Question

I have several potted Italian Stone pines that I would like to donate to a pet shop for habitat in a reptile cage. Are they safe for lizards and snakes in their warm, moist environment? Foolishly, I brought 5 potted trees to Colorado Springs… grrr.

Answer 1

I can't find much information as to whether this live plant (or pines in general) is safe for a reptile habitat, but it seems that pine shavings (and possibly pine needles) shouldn't be used intentionally as bedding for reptiles. Some owners think they release oils that can harm reptiles if they get on their skin. So, if the plant sheds a lot of needles, there's a possibility it could be unsafe for them. This link might help:
http://www.anapsid.org/cedar2.html