Casuarina equisetifolia
Coastal She-Oak
The Casuarina equisetifolia, or Coastal She-Oak, is a fast-growing, evergreen tree known for its fine, needle-like foliage and adaptability to coastal environments. Reaching heights of up to 15 to 35 metres, it has a slender, upright form and dense canopy that provides excellent windbreaks and shade. Its small cone-like fruits and ability to thrive in sandy and saline soils make it ideal for stabilising coastal dunes and preventing erosion.
Native to Australia and Southeast Asia, the Coastal She-Oak is a versatile tree suited for ornamental, ecological, and functional planting.
Specifications
- Height15 to 35 metres
- Width5 to 10 metres
- Native toAustralia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands
- FoliageFine, needle-like branchlets resembling pine needles, with a soft, airy appearance
- Growth rateFast
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerates saline and poor soils
- LightFull sun
- WaterLow; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical, and coastal regions
Additional Features
- FormSlender, upright trunk with a dense canopy of fine foliage
- UsesIdeal for windbreaks, erosion control, shade, and ornamental planting in coastal landscapes
- SpacingPlant 5 to 10 metres apart for windbreaks or individual displays
- Low MaintenanceRequires minimal care; prune to manage size or shape if necessary
- Pest ResistanceNaturally resistant to pests and diseases with basic care
- Environmental BenefitsStabilises soil, prevents erosion, and supports wildlife habitats
- Salt ToleranceHighly tolerant of salt spray and sandy coastal conditions
- Cultural UsesTraditional use for timber, firewood, and shade in Indigenous communities
The Coastal She-Oak is a resilient and multifunctional tree, perfect for protecting coastal areas, enhancing biodiversity, and adding structure to landscapes with challenging conditions.