River Sheoak - Casuarina cunninghamiana (Bilawi) seeds

Casuarina cunninghamiana - River Sheoak
An iconic Australian tree with deep cultural and environmental significance.

Quick Facts

• Height: Ranges from 15 to 35 metres.
• Foliage: Dense, feathery, evergreen foliage from top to bottom, excellent for windbreaks.
• Soil: Thrives in clay and loam soils; suitable for acidic, neutral, or alkaline conditions.
• Water: Tolerates drought and is ideal for riverbanks or waterways due to its suckering habit.
• Growth: Fast-growing and long-lived.

Why Grow Casuarina cunninghamiana?

The River Sheoak is a versatile, hardy tree perfect for a variety of landscapes. Its dense foliage makes it an effective windbreak, while its extensive root system stabilises soil, making it invaluable for erosion control. Its ability to sucker ensures it thrives along waterways, where it prevents soil degradation and supports local ecosystems.

Bush Food Note

The River Sheoak provides multiple bush food resources:

• Seeds: Crushed into a paste for consumption.
• Grubs: Found boring into the tree, providing a protein-rich food source.

How to Grow

1. Sowing Instructions:

   • Sow seeds on the surface of well-drained soil and press lightly. Do not bury deeply.
   • Maintain even moisture during germination but avoid waterlogging.

2. Position:

   • Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
   • Ideal for planting along riverbanks, waterways, or open landscapes.

3. Care Tips:

   • Water regularly during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
   • Minimal maintenance required; prune to shape or manage suckering if needed.

Uses in Your Garden

• Windbreak: Dense foliage provides excellent wind protection.
• Erosion Control: Perfect for stabilising riverbanks and preventing soil degradation.
• Wildlife Habitat: Provides food and shelter for birds, including the red and yellow-tailed black cockatoos.
• Cultural Significance: Supports native ecosystems and offers practical resources for traditional crafts.

Germination Tips

• Sow seeds in warm temperatures, ensuring consistent moisture.
• Use well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.
• Germination typically occurs within 2–4 weeks.
• Smoke water treatment may enhance germination rates but is not essential.

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Bring resilience and ecological value to your landscape with Casuarina cunninghamiana. Perfect for windbreaks, erosion control, and supporting wildlife, this remarkable tree is a testament to Australia’s natural heritage.

Add the River Sheoak to your collection today!