Water
Water Moreton Bay Pine moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging, especially in cooler months, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage in the pot or planting location.
Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Also known as Colonial Pine · Cunningham Beefwood · Dorrigo Pine
Moreton Bay Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii) is a tall, coniferous tree native to eastern Australia, often found in coastal rainforests.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and health. Can tolerate partial shade when young, but thrives in bright light.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid prolonged wet conditions.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C. Protect from frost, especially when young. Can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize only young plants annually in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Mature trees do not require regular feeding.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Moreton Bay Pine moderately when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging, especially in cooler months, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage in the pot or planting location.
Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Pruning is generally not required for Moreton Bay Pine, as it has a natural pyramidal shape. If necessary, remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring.
Avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the tree.
Propagation is typically done by seeds, which require stratification. Seeds should be sown in well-draining, moist soil in spring. Cuttings are difficult to root and are not a common propagation method for this species.
Repot young Moreton Bay Pines every 2-3 years in spring, moving them to a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Mature trees rarely need repotting and prefer to be left undisturbed in the ground.
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Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Moreton Bay Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii)
Where Moreton Bay Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Araucariaceae |
| Genus | Araucaria |
| Species | Araucaria cunninghamii |
Similar in genus Araucaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
