AN EVERGREEN ALL-ROUNDER
22 Apr 2021
Known for its versatility and performance, the fast-growing Casuarina cunninghamiana’s beautiful needle-like foliage resembles the feathers of the cassowary bird.
Mt William Advanced Tree Nursery want to put the spotlight on the beautiful Casuarina cunninghamiana, more commonly known as River Sheoak. This specimen would definitely rank at the top of its class as an all-rounder for its versatility and performance, but perhaps a quiet achiever in the evergreen category. 
At maturity this tree will reach heights of up to 25m and develops a shaggy canopy with elegant pendulous branchlets. The beautiful needle-like foliage is what gave the tree its name. 'Casuarina' originates from the word 'Cassowary' – as the trees fine needle-like foliage looks like the feathers of the cassowary bird. 
The River Sheoak not only tolerates frost, but can also sustain drought and slight to moderate salinity. It can thrive in both wet and dry soils, plus can also fix nitrogen in the soil. The River Sheoak is a fast growing, bird attracting tree that requires low maintenance. This species is dioecious with male and female flowers on separate plants. The root system is moderate to deep and develops a thick mat, which is why it is excellent for erosion control. The trunk is usually erect, with dense rough bark. This species was commonly used in baker’s ovens, due to the even trunk, that will burn hot and the ashes retain heat for long periods. 
Another reason the Casuarina cunninghamiana is considered an all-rounder at Mt William Advanced Tree Nursery is its suitability for cultivation across a wide range of climates, extending from cool temperate areas to the seasonally dry tropics. Casuarina cunninghamiana is an ideal tree for river banks, coastal and urban plantings. It has been introduced to several other countries for the purpose of agroforestry. Particularly where shelterbelts are required to protect crops and livestock from wind.
If you are in the suburbs and looking for an alternative to a Birch, the River Sheoak looks amazing planted in clumps and is excellent for screening and even hedging. Orchids can even be grown on the bark. The Casuarina cunninghamainana responds well to pruning and can be quite easily coppiced. A clear front runner for top of the class at Mt William Advanced Tree Nursery.
Find out more about Mt William Advanced Tree Nursery’s wide range of plants via the link below.
