Casuarina

Casuarina Equisetifolia: The Whistling Pine

Casuarina, commonly known as Whistling Pine or Casuarina, is an evergreen tree with a conifer-like appearance. It features slender, much-branched green to grey-green twigs bearing scale-like leaves in whorls of 6 to 8. The inconspicuous light brown flowers are produced in small catkin-like inflorescences. Being monoecious, both male and female flowers are found on the same tree.

Specifications:

• Common Names: Whistling Pine, Casuarina, Common Ironwood, Beefwood, Bull-oak, Jungli Saru
• Maximum Height: Up to 35 m
• Flower Colour: Inconspicuous (Light brown)
• Bloom Time: Male flowers by the second year, females a little later
• Difficulty Level: Easy to grow

Planting and Care:

• Sunlight: Full sun
• Watering: Moderate, irrigate every 10 to 15 days
• Soil: Well-Drained, Saline, Loose, Fine Soils
• Temperature: 16 to 45 degrees C
• Fertilizer: Use any organic fertilizer

Special Features: Casuarina exhibits strong resistance to high winds, making it an ideal choice for windbreaks.

Uses:

• Ornamental: Commonly grown for its ornamental value.
• Medicinal: Bark and twigs are used in Ayurvedic preparations. Always consult a professional before medicinal use.
• Culinary: Seeds are roasted for salt, and leaves/green fruit are chewed to stimulate salivation for thirst relief.

Propagation: Casuarina Equisetifolia can be propagated by seed. Planting with the onset of rains in well-prepared, well-drained soil is recommended, with an ideal spacing of 4 x 4 to 6 x 6 feet.

This versatile tree is easy to grow, offers ornamental appeal, has medicinal uses, and serves as a resilient windbreak. Ensure regular watering during the initial two years and consider organic insecticides for pest control.