Casuarina equisetifolia is a deciduous tree that occurs in open, coastal habitats including sand beaches, rocky coasts and sand dunes. Trees can grow to over 100 ft. (30.5 m) in height.
Foliage
The reddish-brown to gray bark is brittle and peels. Branchlets resemble pine needles and are very thin, 4-8 in. (10-20 cm) long and gray-green.
Flowers
Male and female flowers are present on the same plant and are inconspicuous. Male flowers occur in terminal spikes, while the female flowers are in small, axillary clusters.
Fruit
Fruit are tiny, winged nutlets that each contain one seed. The fruits are contained in woody, cone-like structures that are 0.75 in. (2 cm) long.
Ecological Threat
Casuarina equisetifolia is native to Australia and southeast Asia and was introduced into Florida in the late 1800’s.