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Hoop pine
Araucaria cunninghamii
Araucaria cunninghamii, commonly known as Hoop Pine, is a coniferous tree native to Australia and New Guinea. It is a tall, stately tree that can reach heights of 50 meters or more. It's valued for its timber and ornamental use. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade when young. Notably, it has distinctive, scale-like leaves and cones.
| Category | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennial plant | |
| Estimated Plant Lifespan | 150 years lifespan | |
| Sun Requirements | 6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun) | |
| Pollination | Method: Wind | |
| Watering Requirements | Method: Top water Frequency: Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. Notes: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. | |
| Humidity Requirements | Level: Moderate Maintenance: Not typically required in natural outdoor settings. Seedlings may benefit from slightly higher humidity. | |
| Care Instructions | Young trees benefit from staking to encourage straight growth. Pruning is generally not required except to remove dead or damaged branches. | |
| Temperature Range | Min: -5°C Max: 35°C | |
| Alternative Names | Hoop Araucaria |
Cultivars
Hoop pine
Price: $129
View Supplierweeping bottlebrush
Melaleuca viminalis
Callistemon thrives in similar well-drained soil and full sun conditions as Araucaria cunninghamii, and their differing growth habits (a weeping shrub versus a tall, upright tree) provide visual interest.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the needles, causing yellowing, stippling, and eventual needle drop. They thrive in dry conditions.
Scale
Scale insects attach themselves to the branches and needles, sucking sap and weakening the tree. They appear as small, raised bumps on the plant.
Steps:
- For seeds, collect mature cones and extract the seeds.
- Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing.
- Sow seeds in well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil consistently moist and provide warm temperatures.
- For cuttings, take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Place cuttings in a well-draining rooting medium.
- Maintain high humidity and warm temperatures until roots develop.
Neem Oil
Effective against spider mites and scale insects.
Seaweed Fertilizer
Promotes healthy growth and strengthens the tree's resistance to pests and diseases.