Celery-top pine (Phyllocladus aspleniifolius, London J. Bot. 4: 151 (1845))

Family: Podocarpaceae

Author: (Labill.) Hook.f.

Bibliography: London J. Bot. 4: 151 (1845)

Year: 1845

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Phyllocladus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Tasmania

Description

Celery-top pine, known scientifically as Phyllocladus aspleniifolius, is a notable member of the Podocarpaceae family. This unique gymnosperm is primarily found in the diverse and often pristine landscapes of Tasmania, where it has become an integral part of the region’s forest ecosystems.

Endemic to Tasmania, the celery-top pine has adapted to thrive in various environmental conditions across the island. It is distinguished by its unusual foliage, which resembles that of celery, hence its common name. The leaves of the celery-top pine are, in fact, modified stems known as phylloclades, which serve the plant’s photosynthetic needs.

The taxonomy of Phyllocladus aspleniifolius was formally described by the renowned botanist Hooker, with his classification published in the London Journal of Botany in the year 1845. The formal citation of this work verifies its longstanding recognition within the botanical community.

Ecologically, the celery-top pine plays a critical role in Tasmanian forest habitats, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological stability of these regions. It is often found in mixed forests, sharing its environment with various other tree species and supporting a myriad of wildlife who depend on it for shelter and food.

The tree itself can reach substantial heights, making it an impressive component of the Tasmanian flora. Its wood is valued for its quality, often utilized in fine woodworking, which adds economic importance to its ecological role.

In summary, the celery-top pine (Phyllocladus aspleniifolius) is a distinctive and vital part of Tasmania’s natural heritage, recognized both for its unique botanical characteristics and its contribution to forest ecosystems.

Common Names

Eng: celery-top pine, celery-top-pine
En: Celery-top pine, Celery-top-pine

Synonyms

• Phyllocladus trichomanoides var. glaucus ((Carrière) Parl.)
• Phyllocladus glaucus (Carrière)
• Podocarpus aspleniifolius (Labill.)
• Phyllocladus rhomboidalis (Rich.)
• Thalamia asplenifolia ((Labill.) Spreng.)
• Phyllocladus serratifolius (Nois. ex Henkel & Hochst.)
• Phyllocladus billardierei (Mirb.)
• Brownetera aspleniifolia ((Labill.) Tratt.)

Distribution

• Tasmania (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 24, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2021 by Flor Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2021 by Flor Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 9, 2022 by bernard Parrin (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Aug 16, 2019 by that’s someguy (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken May 1, 2021 by Flor Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2021 by Flor Alex (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5284464)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:262597-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phyllocladus aspleniifolius (Labill.) Hook.f.)

Specifications

Growth