About Callitris verrucosa (A.Cunn. ex Endl.) F.Muell.
Callitris verrucosa, commonly called mallee pine, is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 8 meters (26 feet) tall. This species is typically multi-stemmed, with erect branches. Its leaves are 2–4 mm long, green-grey in color, and have a conical-rounded surface. Male cones are 3 mm long, growing in single clusters; female cones measure approximately 20 mm long, growing in bunches. The mallee pine is an obligate seeder, and its seeds exhibit serotiny. Intense fires negatively affect this species, but it also requires fire for its seeds to germinate, making it unique. This mallee pine is endemic to the Mallee Woodlands and Shrublands of southern Australia, and occurs naturally in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils, grows best in sandy soils, and is commonly found on sand dunes within its native range. Resin from various Callitris species, including this one, was used as an adhesive for tools and weaponry by Aboriginal Australians. Long, straight branches of the plant were also shaped into fishing spears. The wood of the mallee pine is durable and insect-resistant, so it can be used for fencing.
