Description
Casuarina equisetifolia is an evergreen tree and has a conifer-like appearance.
The foliage of this perennial plant consists of slender, much branched green to grey-green twigs, bearing minute scale-leaves in whorls of 6 to 8. The flowers are produced in small catkin-like inflorescences. It is monoecious, with male and female flowers produced on the same tree.
Plant Specifications
| Common Name | Whistling Pine, Casuarina, Common Ironwood, Beefwood, Bull-oak, Jungli Saru |
| Maximum Reachable Height | Up to 35 m |
| Flower Colour | Inconspicuous (Light brown) |
| Bloom Time | Male flowers by second year and females a little later. |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
Casuarina equisetifolia care
It grows along sandy coasts and coastal forests naturally. It can be propagated by seed. A spacing of 4 x 4 to 6 x 6 feet is ideal which allows intercropping in the first year. The soil is scooped to the depth and width of the bag, planted preferably with the onset of rains.
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Watering | Moderate. The irrigation is required for once in every 10 to 15 days. |
| Soil | Well-Drained Soils, Saline, Loose, Fine Soils |
| Temperature | 16 to 45 degrees C |
| Fertilizer | Use any organic fertilizer. |
Casuarina equisetifolia special feature
It has a strong resistance to high winds and can thus be used as a windbreak.
Casuarina equisetifolia uses
Ornamental Use:
- The tree is commonly grown as an ornamental
Medicinal Use:
- Bark and twigs are used in ayurvedic preparations
- Note: Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally
Culinary Use:
- The seeds are roasted for salt
- The leaves and green fruit were chewed to stimulate salivation to quench thirst
- Note: Please consult your health expert