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Description
Gymnostachys Anceps, also known as the Australian Pine or Black Pine, is a species of evergreen tree native to Australia. It is a member of the Casuarinaceae family and grows up to 25 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Casuarinaceae |
| Genus | Gymnostachys |
Appearance
The Gymnostachys Anceps has a distinctive appearance with its straight trunk and thin, needle-like leaves that resemble pine needles. The leaves are a dark green color and grow in whorls of five to six. The tree also produces cone-like fruit that is brown in color and about 1-2 cm in length.
Care Guide
Water: The Gymnostachys Anceps prefers moist soil but can tolerate some periods of drought. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The Gymnostachys Anceps prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6-7.5.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The Gymnostachys Anceps is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Gymnostachys Anceps is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
The Gymnostachys Anceps is native to coastal areas of eastern Australia, where it grows in sandy soils near the coast. It is commonly used for erosion control and reforestation.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Gymnostachys Anceps a fast-growing tree?
A: No, the tree grows at a moderate rate of about 12-24 inches per year.
Q: Can the Gymnostachys Anceps be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the tree in containers, it is not recommended as it can grow quite large.
Q: Can the Gymnostachys Anceps tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the tree is tolerant of salt spray and is commonly used in coastal landscapes.
Q: Does the Gymnostachys Anceps have any medicinal properties?
A: Some indigenous tribes in Australia have used the bark of the tree for medicinal purposes, including to treat skin conditions and as a pain reliever.
Related Plants
- Casuarina equisetifolia
- Casuarina glauca
- Casuarina cunninghamiana
References
- “Gymnostachys Anceps.” Australian Tropical Rainforest Plants. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://apps.lucidcentral.org/rainforest/text/entities/gymnostachys_anceps.htm
- “Gymnostachys Anceps.” Trees and Shrubs Online. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/gymnostachys/gymnostachys-anceps/
