Casuarina equisetifolia commonly called Mile Tree or Christmas Pine originated in Australia and Southeast Asia. Casuarina is not a true Pine Tree; over the years it just got referred to as a Christmas Pine.
Casuarinas are tall trees and grow to a height of approximately 70 – 100 feet. The foliage consists of green scaly branches which look like pine needles with oval shaped fruits that look like cones. This hardwood tree with pendulous branches swaying in the breeze are both salt and drought tolerant. The roots produce nitrogen which enriches poor soil and controls erosion.
This is the main reason why the Casuarina can be used as a wind breaker along the coast (ie the East Coast Demerara) on sandy beaches and in rocky areas.
It can also be planted as a standard tree or as a hedge. When used as a hedge it requires frequent pruning.
Casuarina can also be trained in imaginative shapes and topiary subjects.
Casuarina can be seen outside Republic Bank Ltd on Water Street and the Monument Garden on Ave of the Republic. It can be planted by seeds.
Casuarina is also widely used in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean as a Bonsai subject. Those that are grown in Taiwan are regarded among the best in the Bonsai world.
Casuarina was also introduced into Florida in the 1800s and is now competing with other native plants.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
