Callitris gracilis, commonly known as native pine or slender cypress pine is a conifer in the family Cupressaceae, native to southern Australia.

Description

It is a broad conical tree growing up to 20 m high. The leaves are reduced to tiny structures, which clasp the flexible green stems. The tiny male and female flower structures occur on the same tree, with the male flowers capable of shedding huge clouds of pollen in winter. The fruit is a woody globe-shaped cone, 2.5-4 cm in diameter, with six thick segments that open at maturity to release papery-winged seeds. The cones may persist on the tree for many years, and each one can hold up to 30 seeds.

Taxonomy

Callitris gracilis was formerly included in Callitris preissii, but that name is now restricted to plants from the Perth area.

Distribution and habitat

Callitris gracilis can be found in Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.

Ecology

Several species of parrot eat the maturing fruits.

Uses

Indigenous people from some areas use the foliage to make infusions for the relief of coughs and colds, and to make smoke medicine. The tree was highly prized by European settlers for its straight trunk and termite-resistant wood. In cultivation they make attractive feature trees for large gardens or parks. Seed should be stratified before sowing in late winter. Once established, it becomes a long-lived and hardy evergreen tree.