Black Cypress Pine
Origin of name
Family: CUPRESSACEAE
- Callitris meaning “beautiful three“
- endlicheri in honour of Stephan Endlicher
Occurrence
A species of stony hills/sandy slopes in higher, drier areas more than 50km west and north of Townsville.
Prefers light, well-drained soils and full sun. Tolerates frost, drought, some salinity & poorer soils, but NOT fire. Plant >3m from structures – invasive roots. Good pot plant when young. Bonsai-suitable. Good screen/feature tree. Prune to retain one main trunk and preserve natural shape
Appearance
Tree (10-15m) with dark, furrowed bark, scale-like leaves and pyramidal crown. Male cones (small, at ends of short branches) & female cones (20-25mm, woody) are on the same tree. Female cones open to release small seeds.
Indigenous use: Sticky gum, as adhesive. Food source for cockatoos & other parrots. Timber valued for indoor use.
Image coming soon