With 8-Across, tree that produces nearly two-foot-long cones

SUGAR

Think of the sweet-sounding evergreen whose name also describes a common kitchen staple.

This clue is part of a two-word answer split between 8-Across and another clue. The full tree name is "SUGAR PINE," known for its massive cones that can grow up to nearly two feet long. "SUGAR" is just the first half of the answer, with the rest appearing in the crossing clue. The tree’s name comes from the sweet resin found in its bark.