Bunya Pine
araucaria bidwillii
Also known as: ["Bunya Nut Pine","Fever Tree"]
Overview
A large, evergreen conifer native to Australia, known for its large, edible seeds and distinctive symmetrical crown.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Genus: | Araucaria |
| Botanical Name: | Araucaria bidwillii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can tolerate slightly sandy loam outdoors.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after significant growth spurts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from indoors; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatechallenging
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; place near east-facing windows for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); can tolerate 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings are challenging and less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep consistently moist.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help with cuttings but is not essential.
Timeline
Seeds may take 3–6 months to germinate; cuttings can take several months to root.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, well-draining soil, warmth source, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain high humidity for cuttings; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual branches; avoid shearing to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/damaged branches, and encourage denser growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter) with good drainage.
Method
Remove plant carefully, trim roots if necessary, use fresh well-draining soil, ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may become large and require outdoor space over time.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; prune roots if crowded; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning needles, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can damage roots; prolonged cold may lead to dieback or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop older needles to conserve resources.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThe seeds and nuts of Araucaria bidwillii are toxic to cats, with similar effects to those in dogs. The toxic compounds can cause gastrointestinal irritation and systemic issues, leading to discomfort and potential health risks.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and nuts of Araucaria bidwillii are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity. Dogs may experience severe digestive upset and other adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe seeds and nuts of Araucaria bidwillii contain cyclopropenoid fatty acids, which can interfere with enzyme systems and disrupt metabolic processes in humans. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the seeds of the Bunya Pine edible?
A: Yes, the large seeds are edible and have been a traditional food source for Indigenous Australians.
Q: How tall does the Bunya Pine grow?
A: It can grow up to 40–50 meters tall in its native habitat.
Q: Does the Bunya Pine require special care?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, and is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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