Australian Pine

(Casuarina equisetifolia)

Australian Pine (Casuarina equisetifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Casuarina equisetifolia, commonly known as Australian Pine, is an evergreen tree that can grow to heights of 6–35 m (20–115 ft). It is native to coastal regions in Australia and the Malay Archipelago, often found in sandy soils, and is tolerant of salt spray, making it common in beach and dune ecosystems. The foliage consists of slender, much-branched green to grey-green twigs 0.5–1 mm (0.020–0.039 in) in diameter, bearing minute scale-leaves in whorls of 6–8. The tree’s appearance is characterized by its fine, feathery foliage and rough, grey-brown bark. The flowers are inconspicuous, with male flowers in simple spikes 0.7–4 cm (0.28–1.57 in) long and female flowers on short peduncles. Casuarina equisetifolia is monoecious, with both male and female flowers on the same tree. The fruit is a woody structure resembling a conifer cone, containing seeds with small wings. This species is an actinorhizal plant, capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen, which can benefit soil health.

Australian Pine is valued for its ability to stabilize sandy soils and is often used in coastal and windbreak plantings. It is also used for timber and as a shelterbelt tree. In cultivation, it requires full sun, medium water, and well-drained soils. It is relatively low-maintenance but can become invasive outside its native range. Its invasive potential is due to its prolific seed production and ability to outcompete native vegetation. Gardeners should be cautious about planting it in regions where it is known to be invasive.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 20-40 feet
  • Width: 30-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

native to coastal regions in Australia and the Malay Archipelago, often found in sandy soils, and is tolerant of salt spray, making it common in beach and dune ecosystems

Other Names

Common Names: Coastal She-Oak, Beach Sheoak, Whistling Pine, Australian Beefwood, Australian-Pine, Beefwoodtree, Horsetail She-Oak, Horsetailtree, Whistling-Pine, Whistlingtree

Scientific Names: , Casuarina equisetifolia, Casuarina litorea, Casuarina equisetifolia var. incana, Casuarina muricata, Casuarina equisetifolia var. typica,

GBIF Accepted Name: Casuarina equisetifolia L.