Prumnopitys ladei – Mount Spurgeon Black Pine

Prices on request

For enquiries regarding our ex-ground specimen and their availability.

Please phone: (07) 4697 8018

or Email: barbara@emahotrees.com.au

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The Prumnopitys ladei, commonly known as Mount Spurgeon Black Pine, is a rare and striking conifer native to the highland rainforests of northern Queensland, Australia. This slow-growing, evergreen tree features dense, dark green, needle-like foliage and a graceful, upright growth habit. Reaching heights of up to 20–30 meters in natural settings, it is smaller in cultivation and ideal as a feature tree or for reforestation projects. Its elegant form and adaptability make it a standout addition to native gardens or landscapes.

Specifications:

  • Height: 10–15 meters in cultivation (20–30 meters in the wild)
  • Width: 4–6 meters
  • Native to: Northern Queensland, Australia
  • Foliage: Dark green, needle-like leaves; evergreen
  • Growth rate: Slow

Conditions:

  • Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils; tolerates acidic soils
  • Light: Full sun to partial shade
  • Water: Moderate; requires consistent moisture, particularly during establishment
  • Climate: Thrives in subtropical and tropical regions

Additional Features:

  • Form: Upright, conical growth habit with dense foliage
  • Uses: Ideal as a feature tree, shade tree, or for native revegetation projects
  • Spacing: Plant 4–6 meters apart for standalone displays or reforestation efforts
  • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning; tolerates a variety of conditions once established
  • Pest Resistance: Generally resilient; monitor for pests or diseases in stressed conditions
  • Drought Tolerance: Moderate; benefits from consistent watering in dry periods
  • Frost Sensitivity: Prefers frost-free regions but tolerates light frost once mature
  • Wildlife Attraction: Provides habitat for birds and other wildlife
  • Conservation Value: Rare species with importance for biodiversity and native ecosystem preservation
  • Seasonal Appeal: Evergreen foliage provides year-round greenery
  • Versatility: Complements native, formal, and naturalistic garden styles

The Mount Spurgeon Black Pine is a unique and elegant tree, perfect for gardeners and conservationists looking to showcase Australia’s native flora while contributing to biodiversity. Its timeless beauty and ecological significance make it a valuable addition to landscapes and restoration projects.

Pricing Information

Every tree in our collection is unique, varying in size, shape, and calliper. Because these factors affect the complexity of transport and transplantation, we offer customized quotes tailored to your chosen specimens.

Simply inform us of your preferred trees and desired sizes, then our team will provide a detailed quote to ensure each tree's distinctive needs are met.

The Benefits Of Buying An Advanced Tree

  • Instant Landscape Transformation:

    Mature trees can instantly change the landscape and improve the curb appeal of your property. They provide immediate shade, greenery, and a sense of established presence.

  • Privacy:

    Mature trees can provide immediate privacy from neighboring properties. Instead of waiting years for a hedge or young trees to grow, you can have instant screening with a mature tree.

  • Noise Reduction:

    If your home or development is located near a busy street or commercial area, mature trees can serve as an effective sound barrier, reducing the noise levels that reach your living spaces.

  • Erosion Control:

    The extensive root systems of mature trees help to prevent soil erosion, especially on slopes or embankments.

The Process Of Transplanting A Mature Tree

Identify the Tree's Root Zone

Before you begin, it's essential to identify the root zone or root ball of the tree. This is the area where the majority of the tree's feeder roots are located. It is typically estimated as 1 foot of root ball diameter for each inch of tree trunk diameter.

Prune the Roots

Root pruning should occur a few months before the actual move, ideally in the dormant season. This involves cutting a trench around the root zone to encourage the growth of new feeder roots, which will help the tree to establish itself in its new location.

Prepare the Tree

Prior to digging, prune dead or excessive branches from the tree. This reduces the tree's overall mass, making it easier to handle, and decreases water loss post-transplant.

Dig Around the Root Ball

After determining the root ball's size, begin digging around it. Try to retain as much soil around the roots as possible. The depth should ideally get under the root system but be feasible for lifting.

Undercut the Root Ball

Once you've dug around the periphery of the root ball, begin undercutting to sever the remaining roots beneath it.

Lift the Tree

With the root ball freed, carefully lift the tree out of the hole. For large trees, this will likely require machinery like a tree spade or crane. Always lift the tree by the root ball, not the trunk.

Prepare the Tree for Transport

Once the tree is out of the ground, it's critical to protect the root ball to prevent damage. Wrap it in burlap and secure it with twine, wire or steel basket. This not only holds the root ball together but also helps retain moisture.

Water the Root Ball

Prior to transportation, water the root ball thoroughly to ensure the roots stay moist.

Transporting the Tree

Load the tree carefully onto a truck or trailer for transport. The tree should be securely positioned to avoid damage during transit. The tree should ideally be planted in its new location as soon as possible to minimize stress and increase its chance of survival.