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White Cypress Pine (Callitris glaucophylla)

White Cypress Pine, scientifically known as Callitris glaucophylla, is an Australian native tree species with a variety of common names. It is also known as Murray River Cypress-pine, White Cypress-pine, Australian Cypress, and simply Cypress within the industry. The name "Cypress Pine" is also used collectively for several native Australian tree species of the genus Callitris.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Callitris glaucophylla
• Family: Cupressaceae
• Synonyms: C. arenosa, C. glauca

Distribution and Habitat

• White Cypress Pine is widely distributed in inland areas of Australia with moderate rainfall.
• It is found in areas such as South East Queensland and the Pilliga Management Area of N.S.W.
• It thrives in light, sandy soils.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• White Cypress Pine is an evergreen conifer.
• It is a small to medium-sized tree, potentially reaching up to 20 meters in height.
• The tree has a straight trunk and hard bark.
• Despite the common name, it is not a pine but a member of the Cupressaceae family. It does not produce flowers, instead developing male cones.

Ecological Role

• White Cypress Pine is an important native tree widespread in heavily cleared savanna woodlands of the south-east Australian wheat-sheep belt.
• It is drought-tolerant.

Traditional and Modern Uses

• Historically, White Cypress-pine has been harvested for its resin, tannin, and medicinal properties.
• It is a highly durable Australian softwood timber species used in house framing and cladding, flooring, fencing, pergolas, playgrounds and bollards.
• It is known for its resistance to decay, termite and borer attacks.

Considerations for Pets

• The provided text mentions the resin, tannin, and medicinal properties of White Cypress-pine, which might be of interest to pet owners.

Quirky Facts

• While often referred to as a softwood, the properties of White Cypress Pine more closely resemble those of a hardwood than a conifer.

Further Information

• Australian Journal of Botany, 2005, 53, 555–570: White cypress pine (Callitris glaucophylla): a review of its roles in landscape.
• University of New England 2009. Optimum Management of White Cypress Pine (Callitris glaucophylla): Individuals to Landscapes.
• Encyclopaedia Britannica