White cypress

Callitris columellaris & Callitris glaucophylla

The White Cypress or ‘Cypress pine’, is an Australian native, growing in most states of Australia. Although somewhat slow growing it is a popular and very hardy choice for ornamental gardens, timber, forests and parklands. The timber is highly prized for its rich colour, pleasant scent and termite resistance. The trees are extremely drought hardy and will grow on the poorest of soils.

Origin and climate

The White cypress is widespread across Australia and has been found in most states. Callitris glaucophylla is generally the more inland variety, found commonly in areas with rainfall between 250 and 600mm per year and on flat land. It commonly has blue-green (glaucous) foliage and is very heat and drought tolerant. Callitris collumelaris is a greener colour and grows on rocky hills and slopes both inland and near the coast. It does well on rugged terrain with rainfall between 300 and 650mm - though will tolerate higher rainfall quite well.

Growth

Height: Very slow growing, reaching between 10 to 20 metres.

Ideal Growth Conditions: neutral to acidic soil pH. Moist but well-drained soils, full sunlight or partial shade.

Attributes: round small cones and bluish foliage, 3 segments branching to fruit.

Callitris species are pyrophilic - using and benefioting from fires under the canopy of mature trees. Their cones are serotinous (sealed with a resin that melts under the heat of fire to release the seeds). After fire, seed disperse and germination is stimulated at high levels.

Tending and care

Slow growing, prefers cooler climates, sandy loam - loam clay soil, tolerates light frosts.

Uses: Ornamental for gardens, natural forest, Timber.