Callitris columellaris aka Bribie Island Pine

Callitris columellaris is a tree from Australia that stays green year-round. It is part of Cupressaceae, the cypress family. People call it cypress pine or Murray River pine. It grows across much of Australia. Its range spans warm temperate lands and the tropics. It grows in dry inland sites and some coastal areas. Light soils suit it, such as deep sands near the coast. Inland groups of trees reach into the mountains.

This tree grows slowly. Its crown can grow upright or spread out. Sources give a usual upper height of 66 feet [20 metres]. Some trees reach 98 feet [30 metres], though most stay smaller. The trunk can measure about 1–2 feet [0.3–0.6 metres] across. The leaves stay on the tree through the year. Each tree has both male and female parts for breeding. Wind carries the pollen, and the tree forms cones.

Give this tree full sun and soil that drains well. It grows in sand and loam. The soil can be mildly acid, neutral, or alkaline. It can even grow in very alkaline or salty soil. Once trees take root, they cope well with drought. They can also grow in moist soil. Mild winters suit growth in the open best. Some forms survive brief cold spells near 19°F [-7°C]. This does not mean they can survive long, wet winters. PFAF lists USDA zones 9–11. Yet its text notes that reports differ on cold hardiness. In Britain, trees grow outdoors only in the mildest sites.

People plant this tree for its looks, including along streets. Its hard wood has a close grain and strong scent. The wood contains resin. People use it for buildings, furniture, cabinets, fences, and boats. It lasts well but is brittle and burns with ease. The bark yields tannin. Cut wood and stumps yield resin, once used to coat pills. Plantations have supplied essential oil and other natural products too. Slow growth has held back its value as a plantation wood crop.

Fire poses a grave risk, as the trees burn with ease. Forest fires kill them in most cases. Grazing, weeds, and changed fire patterns harm habitat across its range. Even so, the cited 2013 assessment lists it as Least Concern. PFAF records no known edible use and no known hazards. This does not prove it is safe for people or pets. PFAF lists no medicinal uses. Useful Tropical Plants, though, reports past Aboriginal use as medicine.