Radiata Pine (Monterey Pine)
Pinus radiata
The Radiata pine also known as the Monterey pine has a mild and pleasant scent and long, soft needles. It is the most well-known Christmas tree variety in Australia and adapts quickly to growing in a range of climates. Native to North America., the Radiata pine makes a fast-growing and hardy potted Christmas tree and an attractive fresh-cut tree.
Origin and climate
The Radiata pine is native to the central coast of California and a couple islands off the coast of Mexico. it is threatened in its natural habitat by the introduction of the pine pitch canker, a fungus from other parts of Mexico.
History In Australia
The Radiata pine is believed to have been introduced into Australia as early as the 1850s, brought in by immigrants seeking to find their riches with the gold rush. The radiata pine is now one of the most popular commercial varieties in the Australian timber industry.
Growth
Height: 7 ft Christmas tree in 3 - 4 years. Mature height around 35 meters.
Ideal Growth Conditions: Full sun or partial shade, sandy well-drained soils. Tolerant of a large range of soil.
In Australia, the radiata pine grows well in cooler regions of NSW such as the Northern and Central Tablelands and Southern Slopes.
Attributes: Deep green, sparse needles with a pleasant scent. Large deep brown cones. Releases yellow pollen in spring. Quick growing compared to spruce and firs.
Radiata pine in its natural habitat
Tending and care
The Radiata or Monterey Pine is the life of the party. Your classic Aussie Christmas tree. This tree is the perfect balance between reliability and class. Dense and fluffy with a rich dark green colour and sensational pine smell. Don't leave this tree off the invite list.
Uses: Ornamental in gardens, windbreaks and farm tree areas, timber and forestry, and Christmas trees.
Fresh-cut tree care: Treat your fresh-cut tree like you would fresh-cut flowers, when you first arrive home recut the base of the tree and place it in clean water. Check the water level daily, ensuring the stem is fully submerged. Want to give your tree some extra TLC? Spritz with water daily
Fun facts
Australia is the only country in the world that uses the Radiata pine as a Christmas trees, this is due to import restrictions and the difficulty to grow other types of Christmas trees in the harsh Australian climate.
In North america, they use a wide range of firs varieties, mostly from the rocky mountains like the Fraser fir and the Douglas fir. In Europe the Turkish Nordmann fir is more common along with the Norway spruce. Spruced trees is one of the only nursery to grow these trees in Australia. We also have exotic Christmas trees varieties from all over the world, including Trojan firs, Korean firs Serbian Spruces, Stone pines and many more. Visit our Shop to see our products!
