Description for Casuarina equisetifolia, Australian Pine Tree
Plant height: 19 – 29 inches
Plant spread:
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.

Common name(s): Whistling Pine, Casuarina, Common Ironwood, Beefwood, Bull-oak, Jungli Saru
Flower colours: Inconspicuous (Light brown)
Bloom time: Male flowers by second year and females a little later.
Max reachable height: Up to 35 m
Difficulty to grow: Easy to grow
Planting and 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
Soil: Well-Drained Soils, Saline, Loose, Fine Soils
Water: Moderate. The irrigation is required for once in every 10 to 15 days.
Temperature: 16 to 45 degrees C
Fertilizer: Use any organic fertilizer.
Caring for Casuarina equisetifolia
Be careful to water the plants regularly during the first two years following planting.
Do watering is done along with the planting.
Organic insecticides such as biocide are highly effective to get rid of moths (parasites).
Harvesting
NA

Typical uses of Casuarina equisetifolia
Special features: It has a strong resistance to high winds and can thus be used as a windbreak.

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.

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.