With an attractive weeping habit, Allocasuarina littoralis, commonly called the Black She-oak is a useful landscaping tree.
Best described as having a natural upright habit, the mature bark is very dark, fissured and gives a textural appearance.
This is a fast growing tree which makes it valuable in a range of landscaping projects. It is also a species that fixes nitrogen into the soil.
With a natural habitat from the east coast of Tasmania and along coastal ranges areas from Victoria to Queensland this is a very adaptable and easy Allocasuarina species.
Care
Very easy care once established as long as drainage is good. It is moderately drought tolerant, and will cope with frosts.
Landscaping Uses
Excellent as a windbreak tree, it attracts native birds to the garden and the trunk with its deep fissured bark is also suited to growing some epiphytic orchids.
Propagation
Easy from seed.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Allocasuarina littoralis
- Common Name – Black She-oak
- Position – Full sun
- Soil – Well drained
- Height – To round 12 metres in height.
- Spread – To around 4 metres
- Flowers – Male trees have attractive red flowers, female trees have smallish cones.
- Flowering Time – Autumn
- Growth Rate – Dependant on soil and climate, from medium to fast.
- Drought tolerant – Moderate
- Frost tolerant – Yes
- Salt tolerant – No