Bunya Pine

Araucaria bidwillii

This large conifer tree, from dry rainforests in south-east and north Queensland, was an important food source and of cultural significance for Aboriginal people. The tree is recognised by its very straight trunk, symmetrical bullet-shaped crown of many simple branches and rough to scaly dark-grey bark.

Branches end in clusters of twigs covered in hard, sharp-pointed leaves about 5 cm long and 2 cm broad. The leaves are retained when small branches fall. Older trees, growing in the open, may have a second or even a third crown lower on the trunk. The seed cones weigh up to 10 kg and fall intact, releasing large seeds after drying. The tree is popular as an ornamental specimen throughout mainland Australia and overseas.

How high can I grow? Up to 50m.