Turpentine, an oleo-resin, is obtained from Pinus species. Pine trees (Pinaceae family), particularly Pinus palustris (longleaf pine) and Pinus pinaster (maritime pine), produce oleoresin tapped from trunk wounds, which is steam-distilled to yield gum turpentine (α/β-pinene rich) and rosin.

Option Analysis

• (1) Pinus: Correct—primary commercial source; oleoresin (gum/resin + turpentine oil) harvested via V-notches, yields 18-20% turpentine spirits.

• (2) Abies: True firs produce balsam (Abies balsamea Canada balsam), not turpentine; different terpene profile (β-phellandrene dominant).

• (3) Ginkgo: Ginkgo biloba yields foul-smelling seed coat oil (no resin); gymnosperm but no oleoresin tapping.

• (4) Cycas: Cycads exude gum from injuries (polysaccharide-based), not terpenoid turpentine oleoresin.

Answer: (1) Pinus.​

Introduction to Turpentine Source

Turpentine which is an oleo-resin is obtained from Pinus species, tapped from living pines yielding crude gum (65% rosin, 18% turpentine). Steam distillation separates C10 monoterpenes (pinene 60-70%) used in solvents, paints, fragrances.​

Pinus Oleoresin Production

• Tapping: V-shaped streaks channel resin flow

• Distillation: 150-170°C yields gum spirits (90% α/β-pinene)

• Byproduct: Rosin (abietic acid) for adhesives, soldering flux

• Yield: 30M gallons turpentine annually from southern pines

Why Other Genera Fail

GATE Economic Botany Relevance

Tests plant product sources: Pinus=turpentine, Shorea=damar, Dipterocarpus=kauri. Essential for pharmacognosy, forestry, industrial botany questions.​