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Beach Sheoak

Casuarina equisetifolia

Also known as Coast She-oak, Coastal She-oak, Coastal Beefwood

tree☀️ full sun💧 low water❄ Hardy: Zone 9a – Zone 11b

Climate Match for your location

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A fast-growing coastal tree with feathery, needle-like foliage and a distinctive upright form. Extremely salt and drought tolerant, making it ideal for seaside locations and arid climates.

Why grow it

Casuarina equisetifolia outperforms many ornamental trees in extreme coastal and arid conditions, particularly where salt spray and sandy soils limit alternatives. Its rapid growth rate and nitrogen-fixing capability (via root nodules) can make it useful for windbreaks and soil stabilization in challenging sites. However, gardeners should note that many native species often perform comparably in their respective regions with fewer management considerations.

Watch out for

This tree develops a deep root system and can be difficult to remove once established. It produces copious fine litter year-round, which may require regular cleanup in landscaped settings. In regions with low rainfall, supplemental watering during establishment (first one to two seasons) typically improves survival rates.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
fast
Size
40–100′ tall × 20–40′ wide
Dormancy
evergreen
Family
Casuarinaceae
Biomass and mulchErosion controlWindbreak
Nitrogen fixer · Low

Native Range

Australia

Seasonality

Season of Interest

SummerFallWinter

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Companion Planting

Plants well with