River Oak
casuarina cunninghamiana
Also known as: ["River She-oak","Cunningham's She-oak"]
Overview
A fast-growing, evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its drooping, pine-like foliage and tolerance to wet conditions.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fagales |
| Family: | Casuarinaceae |
| Genus: | Casuarina |
| Botanical Name: | Casuarina cunninghamiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor planting in open areas with ample space for growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; suitable for both indoor (bright location) and outdoor planting.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during dry periods, less frequently in cooler months
Water thoroughly until runoff; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid overwatering; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm, humid conditions.
Protect from frost; water more in heat; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased branches, and encourage bushier growth; best done after flowering or in late winter.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; apply until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn brown or drop; susceptible to frost damage in young or stressed plants.
Solution: Provide wind protection; use frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide partial shade during peak heat; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution rates; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCasuarina cunninghamiana is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThere are no documented toxic effects of Casuarina cunninghamiana on dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse reactions when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCasuarina cunninghamiana is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Casuarina cunninghamiana suitable for wet soil conditions?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of wet soils and even prefers moist environments.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and habitat value.
Q: How fast does Casuarina cunninghamiana grow?
A: It is a fast-growing tree, often reaching significant height within a few years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Casuarinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during dry p |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
