CASUARINA equisetifolia

In an attractive evergreen tree with pendulous drooping branches, bearing minute scale-leaves in whorls of 6–8.

The flowers are produced in small catkin-like inflorescences; the male flowers in simple spikes 0.7–4 cm (0.28–1.57 in) long, and the female flowers on short peduncles.

Unlike most other species of Casuarina which are dioecious it is monoecious, with male and female flowers produced on the same tree.

Although this species is typically found along foreshores, it is often planted elsewhere as it accepts a wide range of harsh conditions.

CASUARINA equisetifolia is an actinorhizal plant, able to fix atmospheric nitrogen.

Occurs naturally over a wide range including Southern Western Australia, a small range in the Northern Territory, north and east Queensland, and north-eastern New South Wales the Pacific Islands and Asia.

Prefers light well-drained soil in an open sunny position. Drought resistant, salt tolerant but frost tender. Excellent tolerance to harsh and exposed coastal conditions.

Grow notes:

Although seed can be sown most of the year in many parts of Australia seed is generally best sown in spring or autumn in temperate climates, avoid the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 22-25°C for this species.

1. Sow seed on the surface of a porous seed-raising mix.
2. Sprinkle a very light covering of the seed-raising mix over the seed to hold the seed in place. Do not bury the seed too deeply.
3. Water with a fine mist spray to avoid disturbance of the seed.
4. Place in a warm shaded or semi-shaded position to avoid dying out.
5. Keep warm & moist, and avoid drying out or waterlogging the growing mix.
6. Germination generally occurs in around 14-28 days in the right condition.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they are discarded.