Wollemi Pine Wollemia nobilis
ABOUT
Wollemia nobilis, commonly known as the Wollemi pine, is a unique and visually striking plant. Despite its common name, it is not a true pine. Its bark is particularly distinctive, with a chocolate-brown hue and a knobbly, bubbly texture that some compare to coco pops or a chocolate bar left out in the sun. The appearance of the bark has led to the nickname "Dinosaur tree" or "Living fossil." The leaves of the Wollemi pine are another notable feature. They are flat, linear, and arranged in two rows along the branches, creating a fern-like foliage structure. The color of the leaves can vary from a light green when young to a deeper bluish-green as they mature, offering a captivating display of shades throughout the plant's life cycle. This plant also produces cones, typical of conifer species. The female cones are generally elegant, situating themselves at the ends of branches, whereas the male cones are smaller and not as prominently displayed. The striking contrast between the unique bark, the lushness of the leaves, and the presence of the cones contribute to the Wollemi pine's appeal as a living relic from ancient times.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Araucariaceae
Synonyms
Wollemi Pine, Wollemia, Dinosaur Tree, Living Fossil
Common names
Wollemia nobilis
ToxicityTo humans
Wollemia nobilis, commonly known as the Wollemi Pine, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingestion of any part of this plant. Therefore, it is generally considered safe in terms of human toxicity.
To pets
The Wollemi Pine is not commonly reported as a toxic plant to pets. Currently, there is no significant evidence to suggest that this ancient conifer poses a risk if ingested by household pets. However, it is always prudent to monitor pets and prevent them from eating large quantities of any non-food plants, as individual animals might have unique sensitivities or allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Height
80-100 feet (24-30 meters)
Spread
10-20 feet (3-6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Wollemia nobilis, commonly known as the Wollemi Pine, is prized for its unique appearance and ancient lineage, making it a sought-after specimen in gardens and arboretums.
- Conservation: By cultivating the Wollemi Pine, gardeners and conservationists are aiding in the preservation of a species that is considered to be a living fossil, helping to maintain biodiversity.
- Educational Interest: This plant provides educational opportunities as it represents a direct link to prehistoric times, which can be fascinating for botanists, ecologists, and students.
- Genetic Research: The Wollemi Pine offers valuable genetic materials for research in botany, helping to understand the evolution of coniferous species.
- Horticultural Appeal: Due to its rarity and distinctive features, the Wollemi Pine contributes to the diversity of plant collections and horticultural exhibitions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Wollemia, also known as the Wollemi Pine, can be used as a novel Christmas tree due to its evergreen nature and unique, attractive appearance.
- Its bark, which resembles bubbly chocolate, can be studied for educational purposes to understand the plant's unique defense mechanisms and growth patterns.
- The Wollemi Pine's resin may be researched for potential use in varnishes or adhesives due to its sticky, viscous quality.
- This ancient tree serves as a living fossil and is used for scientific study to understand plant evolution and the history of conifers.
- Cultivated Wollemi Pines are used in landscaping as a feature plant because of their distinctive look and rarity, hence adding unique value to gardens.
- The plant's unusual branching pattern is of interest for aesthetic studies, influencing designs in art and architecture.
- It can act as a conservation symbol in botanical gardens, emphasizing the importance of protecting endangered species and natural habitats.
- Due to their rarity and history, they're popular in the horticultural trade among collectors who seek exotic or endangered plant species.
- The tree's ability to survive in a narrow ecological niche makes it an educational example of resilience and adaptation in botany curriculums.
- The Wollemi Pine's seeds and pollen are valuable for genetic research aimed at understanding diversity and genetic makeup of ancient plant lineages.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wollemi Pine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wollemi Pine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rarity and Uniqueness: Wollemia nobilis, commonly known as the Wollemi Pine, was only discovered in 1994, making it a symbol of rarity and unique existence as it was previously thought to be extinct.
- Persistence and Survival: Surviving from the time of dinosaurs, the Wollemi Pine signifies endurance, adaptability, and the ability to withstand the passage of time.
- Resilience: As the Wollemi Pine has survived drastic climatic changes over millions of years, it represents resilience and the capacity to survive through challenging conditions.
- Conservation: Due to its critically endangered status, the Wollemi Pine has become an emblem for conservation efforts and the importance of protecting rare and endangered species.
- Mystery and Fascination: The sudden discovery of the seemingly prehistoric Wollemi Pine in a remote Australian canyon adds to its symbolism of mystery and the enduring fascination humans have with the natural world.
WaterThe Wollemi Pine requires consistent moisture, so it should be watered on a weekly basis, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In terms of the amount, young trees generally need about 2 gallons of water per week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. For adult trees planted in the ground, deep watering is essential to reach the root system, requiring about 15-20 gallons every two weeks during the growing season. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering as the tree's growth slows down and it requires less moisture.
LightThe Wollemi Pine prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade. It is not suited for intense, direct afternoon sunlight, which can scorch the foliage. Ideally, the plant should be placed in a spot where it can receive dappled sunlight or where the strong rays of the midday sun are filtered. East or west-facing spots with protection from the harshest afternoon sun are generally suitable.
TemperatureThe Wollemi Pine can withstand temperatures as low as 23 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 113 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods. However, it prefers a temperature range between 50 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure the best growth and health, aim to maintain a temperate environment within this ideal range, and protect the tree from frost by providing insulation or moving it to a sheltered spot in cooler regions.
PruningThe Wollemi Pine may require occasional pruning to remove any dead or damaged limbs and to maintain its shape. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This allows the tree to heal quickly and reduces the risk of disease. Do not prune too heavily; just clean up the tree's appearance by cutting back any unwanted growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Wollemi Pine thrives best in non-alkaline, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix consisting of 2 parts peat, 1 part perlite, and 1 part pine bark is ideal, providing proper aeration and moisture retention.
RepottingWollemi Pines should be repotted approximately every 5 years or when they become root-bound, as they are relatively slow-growing trees.
Humidity & MistingThe Wollemi Pine prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 60% to 80%, similar to its native rainforest habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and avoid dry air for the Wollemi Pine.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with shelter from harsh elements for the Wollemi Pine.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleWollemia nobilis, commonly known as the Wollemi pine, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after dispersal germinates in a suitable environment, often in rocky, well-drained soil. The seedling establishes a root system and grows into a juvenile tree characterized by dark green, juvenile foliage. As the tree matures, it undergoes a transition to adult foliage, which is a brighter green and has a different leaf arrangement. The adult Wollemi pine develops reproductive structures including both male cones, which produce pollen, and female cones, which after pollination develop into cones containing the seeds. These cones take about 18-20 months to mature after which they release seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. With a potential lifespan of hundreds to possibly thousands of years, the Wollemi pine can go through many reproductive cycles, contributing to the persistence of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Wollemi Pine, also known as Wollemia nobilis, can be propagated primarily through seed collection and germination. The most popular method, given the rarity of the seeds and their subsequent unavailability to the general public, is propagation via cuttings. This involves taking semi-hardwood cuttings from the tree's lateral branches during late summer. The cuttings, typically 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) long, are treated with a rooting hormone to encourage growth. They are then inserted into a sterile growing medium that keeps them moist but not waterlogged. This method is time-consuming and requires precise conditions, but it allows for the replication of specific genetic material, preserving the plant's unique characteristics. It can take several months for roots to develop, at which point the new Wollemi Pine can be carefully transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
