Family: Cupressaceae
Author: F.Muell.
Bibliography: Fragm. 5: 198 (1866)
Year: 1866
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Callitris
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Australia
Description
The Bribie Island Pine, scientifically known as Callitris columellaris, is an intriguing evergreen tree endemic to Australia. Native to a variety of habitats across the continent, this resilient species is a member of the Cupressaceae family, renowned for its robust adaptability and distinctive appearance.
Named and classified in 1866 by the eminent botanist Ferdinand von Mueller, as recorded in the botanical journal Fragm., the Bribie Island Pine boasts a rich historical background in the realm of botanical studies. Its discovery signified a notable addition to Australia’s diverse flora, contributing significantly to the ecological tapestry of its native regions.
Characterized by its slender, columnar form, Callitris columellaris typically reaches heights that vary substantially according to the environmental conditions of its specific locale. The foliage consists of scale-like leaves, tightly pressed to the slender branches, presenting a compact and orderly appearance that is both aesthetically appealing and practical for survival in various climates.
Primarily observed in Australian terrains, the Bribie Island Pine favors sandy, well-drained soils and often occupies coastal areas, rocky outcrops, and woodlands. Its ability to thrive in challenging environmental conditions makes it a species of interest not only to botanists but also to ecologists and conservationists aiming to understand and preserve Australia’s unique natural heritage.
Despite its robust nature, the ecological significance of Callitris columellaris extends beyond its mere survival. It plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil, providing habitat for wildlife, and contributing to the overall health of the ecosystems it inhabits. Its wood, known for being durable and aromatic, has traditionally been utilized for construction, fencing, and even in making essential oils, underscoring its economic as well as ecological value.
In summary, the Bribie Island Pine is more than just a tree; it is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Australia’s native flora. Its historical significance, ecological contributions, and utilitarian uses combine to make Callitris columellaris an essential subject of study and admiration in the botanical world.
Common Names
Eng: bribie island pine, bribie island-pine, cypress pine, murray pine, murray river pine, murray river-pine, murray-pine, northern cypress-pine, western cypress, western sand cypress, white cypress-pine, white pine, white cypress pine, coast cypress-pine, coastal-cypress, cypress-pine, sand-cypress, slender native cypress-pine, western cypress-pine, western sand-cypress, western-cypress, white-pine
En: Bribie Island Pine, Bribie Island-pine, Cypress Pine, Murray Pine, Murray River Pine, Murray River-pine, Murray-pine, Northern Cypress-pine, Western Cypress, Western Sand Cypress, White Cypress-pine, White Pine, White cypress pine, Coast cypress-pine, Coastal-cypress, Cypress-pine, Sand-cypress, Slender native cypress-pine, Western cypress-pine, Western sand-cypress, Western-cypress, White-pine
: Bribie island pine
Synonyms
- Callitris columellaris var. intratropica ((R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.) Silba)
- Callitris glaucophylla (J.Thomps. & L.A.S.Johnson)
- Frenela columellaris ((F.Muell.) Parl.)
- Callitris columellaris var. microcarpa ((Benth.) Govaerts)
- Frenela verrucosa var. laevis (C.Moore)
- Frenela hugelii (Carrière)
- Callitris intratropica (R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.)
- Callitris robusta var. intratropica ((R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.) Ewart & O.B.Davies)
- Callitris robusta var. microcarpa ((Benth.) F.M.Bailey)
- Callitris columellaris var. campestris (Silba)
- Callitris columellaris f. glauca (F.M.Bailey)
- Octoclinis backhousei (W.Hill)
- Callitris hugelii ((Carrière) Franco)
- Callitris columellaris subsp. campestris ((Silba) Silba)
- Callitris columellaris subsp. intratropica ((R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.) Silba)
- Callitris columellaris f. flauca (F.M.Bailey)
- Callitris arenosa (A.Cunn. ex R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.)
- Callitris glauca (R.Br. ex R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.)
- Frenela moorei (Parl.)
- Frenela robusta var. microcarpa (Benth.)
- Callitris intermedia (R.T.Baker & H.G.Sm.)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Northern Territory (native)
- Queensland (native)
- South Australia (native)
- Victoria (native)
- Western Australia (native)
- Hawaii (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Oct 3, 2019 by that’s someguy (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2684338)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:261760-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Callitris columellaris F.Muell.)