She Oak, Common Ru, Australian Pine, Horsetail Casuarina

Casuarina equisetifolia

Physical Characteristics

Casuarina equisetifolia is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Australia and th

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Salt The seeds are roasted for salt. The leaves and green fruit were chewed to stimulate salivation to quench thirst.

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Dysentery Skin Stomachic Root extracts are used for the treatment of dysentery, diarrhoea and stomach-ache[ 303 ]. A decoction of the twigs is used for treating swelling[ 303 ]. The powdered bark is used for treating pimples on the face[ 303 ].

Known Hazards

Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling