Casuarina, Plant Profile and growing conditions
An Australian native tree with a variety of uses Casuarina and AlloCasuarina are referred to as ‘she oaks’.
Sometimes seen as large trees, they in fact vary greatly in size and growth habit. They are generally very hardy and have been used in landscaping for many years due mainly to the durable nature.
You will find them used as street trees through New South Wales, however with such variety they can be used for a range of landscaping applications.
Casuarina Varieties
- Casuarina glauce or ‘swamp oak’ or ‘river oak’ is a water loving variety. It does however grow well in drier conditions. Reaching around 12 – 15m in height depending on conditions.
- Casuarina cunninghamiana is also referred to as ‘river oak’. A large tree to 30m, however often less in cultivation.
- Allocacasuarina torulosa will reach around 15m and is widely used in street plantings.
- Casuarina littoralis – Known as the ‘Black She Oak’ reaches around 5 – 8m in height. A useful small garden tree.
Casuarina are great for coastal conditions, and make excellent windbreaks.
These tree do drop fine needle like foliage and this will form a mat on the ground. Not a lot grows well beneath them, however in the right position this can be an advantage.
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