Forest Types
Callitris
Callitris trees are commonly known as Cypress Pines, although they are not true pines. They are one of the few softwood species native to Australia, growing in the dry, inland areas of New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. They are often found growing in mixed Eucalypt/Callitris forests, which are known to support a wide range of native fauna.
The Callitris genus exists only in Australia, where there are 14 species, and in New Caledonia, which has two species. This limited distribution reflects a time when these two countries were joined together, over 135 million years ago.
The most widespread species of Callitris is White Cypress Pine (Callitris glauca). White Cypress wood is durable and naturally repels insect attacks, including termites. It was used as weatherboards on many older houses and is still commonly used for floorboards, framing and decking, as well as fence posts and telephone poles. Callitris forests are also used extensively for grazing and for beekeeping.
Indigenous people use Northern Cypress as firewood as well as for spear throwers and ceremonial objects. The tree resin can be used to make glue whilst other parts of the tree are used for traditional medicines.
For more information on Callitris forests, read the National Forestry Inventory’s Callitris Forest Profile.
Callitris Forest
Photo: Timber Queensland Limited &
Department of Primary Industries - Forestry QLD
