Athrotaxis Selaginoides

Description

Athrotaxis Selaginoides is a rare and endangered conifer plant that is native to Tasmania, an island state of Australia. It belongs to the family Cupressaceae and is commonly known as King Billy Pine or King William Pine. This plant is highly valued for its unique and beautiful appearance, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardening.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Athrotaxis Selaginoides is a slow-growing conifer plant that can reach up to 30 meters in height. Its bark is thick and fibrous, with a reddish-brown color that becomes darker as the plant ages. The leaves are needle-like and arranged in spirals, with a bright green color that turns to a bluish-gray shade as they mature. The cones are small, measuring only 2-3 cm in length, and contain 20-30 seeds. The plant’s unique appearance makes it a highly sought-after ornamental plant for gardens and parks.

Care Guide

Athrotaxis Selaginoides requires specific care to thrive, and it is essential to provide the right conditions to ensure its growth and survival. Here are some care tips:

• Water: This plant requires regular watering, but it is essential to avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply once a year during the growing season.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also tolerate sandy or loamy soil types.
• Sunlight: Athrotaxis Selaginoides prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. Ensure it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Athrotaxis Selaginoides is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, and it is essential to monitor the plant regularly to prevent infestations. Here are some common issues:

• Needle blight: This fungal disease causes the needles to turn brown and fall off the plant. Prune affected branches and apply a fungicide.
• Spider mites: These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Spray the plant with a neem oil solution.
• Cypress aphids: These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Spray the plant with a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Athrotaxis Selaginoides is native to the subalpine and alpine regions of Tasmania, where it grows in wet and cold conditions. It prefers well-drained, acidic soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant’s natural habitat is under threat due to deforestation and climate change, making it an endangered species.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the growth rate of Athrotaxis Selaginoides?

A: Athrotaxis Selaginoides is a slow-growing plant, and it can take up to 20 years to reach maturity.

Q: Can Athrotaxis Selaginoides tolerate drought?

A: No, this plant requires regular watering, and it cannot tolerate drought conditions.

Q: Is Athrotaxis Selaginoides deer-resistant?

A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant, making it a popular choice for gardens and parks where deer are present.

Q: What is the best time to prune Athrotaxis Selaginoides?

A: Prune this plant during the dormant season, which is in winter or early spring.

Related Plants

• Athrotaxis Dignabilis
• Athrotaxis Cupressoides
• Athrotaxis Selaginoides ‘Compacta’
• Athrotaxis Selaginoides ‘Glauca’

References

• “Athrotaxis Selaginoides.” Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, 2021, https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/athrotaxis-selaginoides. Accessed 23 August 2021.
• “Athrotaxis Selaginoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c406. Accessed 23 August 2021.
• “King William Pine.” PlantNet, 2021, https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Athrotaxis~selaginoides. Accessed 23 August 2021.