Jardim Gulbenkian

Family and description

From the Casuarinaceae family, the Casuarina cunninghamiana is an evergreen, dioecious (male and female flowers on separate trees) and fast-growing tree. It can reach a height of up to 30 m.

Of narrow stem, its foliage is dark greyish green, grouped in the form of needles.

Its trunk is erect, greyish brown and rough.

The flowers are unisexual, very small and appear in late spring. The male ones are brown and are grouped in terminal ears located on the periphery of the crown, the female ones are grouped in conical or ovoid inflorescences.

The fruits are achenes grouped in infructescences, morphologically resembling a miniature pine cone, releasing winged seeds from the inside.

These trees have a vigorous root system and are nitrogen fixers.

Origin and habitat

This family of trees and shrubs has its origin in the arid areas of Australia and Southeast Asia.

These trees can grow on all types of soil, being very resistant to drought and tolerating waterlogging. They are also resistant to negative temperatures and the salinity of coastal areas and require direct light as they are unable to grow in shady areas.

Uses and curiosities

Due to its versatility and characteristics, this species is a good option for stabilization and erosion prevention in sloping areas and also works well as windbreak hedging.

Its wood is used for firewood and in small construction works.