Araucaria cunninghamii aka Hoop Pine

Araucaria cunninghamii is an evergreen conifer in the Araucariaceae family. Its common names include hoop pine and Moreton Bay pine. Its native range runs from New Guinea to eastern Australia. It grows in tropical and subtropical rainforests, often above smaller trees. Some stands grow on ridges; others occur on swampy ground. Useful Tropical Plants reports its conservation status as Least Concern.

This upright tree has a long, narrow crown. The RHS lists garden heights above 39 feet [12 m]. It gives a spread of 13–26 feet [4–8 m]. Other accounts describe heights of 148–230 feet [45–70 m]. These figures show its potential size beyond garden settings. Growth is slow, and maturity takes more than 50 years. Branches grow in whorls, with upper branches pointing upwards. Rough, red-brown bark peels away in thin, ring-like bands. These bands give hoop pine its common name.

The stiff leaves spiral around the shoots and have sharp tips. Young leaves are awl-shaped; adult leaves curve inward and resemble scales. Some leaves feel quite prickly, though fertile shoots have softer leaves. Male cones are narrow cylinders, while female cones are egg-shaped. Female cones reach about 0.3 feet [0.1 m] long. They break apart when ripe and shed nut-like seeds. Wind carries the pollen. Trees may take many years to bear cones.

Grow this tree in sun or partial shade. It needs moist soil that drains well and has moderate fertility. The RHS lists both sandy and loamy soils as suitable. It also accepts acid or alkaline soil. Choose shelter from frost and cold winds that dry the foliage. The RHS rates it H3 for mild parts of Britain. Oregon State places it around USDA zones 9–10. It suits planting as a specimen with a strong upright shape. Growers can raise plants from seed or semi-ripe cuttings.

The RHS reports few pest problems, but honey fungus can attack. People eat the seeds raw or cooked. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards, without giving detailed safety evidence. It records traditional medicinal use of resin from the bark. The wood serves in building, furniture, plywood, and paper pulp. It lasts well when kept dry but can suffer fungal damage. Timber harvest has depleted some natural stands in New Guinea.