Bunya Pine, Bunya Tree (Araucaria bidwillii)

The bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii) is a majestic, ancient conifer native to Queensland, Australia. A member of the Araucariaceae family, it's a living fossil dating back to the Jurassic period. Known for its massive, edible cones and striking symmetrical form, it's a spectacular specimen for large landscapes.

Description

In cultivation, bunya pines grow 50–80 feet tall (up to 150 ft. in the wild) with a straight trunk and a distinctive dome-shaped crown. Leaves are stiff, lance-shaped, and sharply pointed, arranged in spirals. Trees are dioecious (male and female cones on separate trees). Female cones are huge—up to 12 inches long, 8 inches wide, and weighing 10–20 lbs—containing 50–100 large, edible seeds (bunya nuts).

Growing Conditions

• Zones: 9–11 (mature trees tolerate brief dips to 20°F / -6°C).
• Light: Full sun.
• Soil: Deep, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Tolerates a range of soil types if drainage is good.
• Water: Regular moisture when young; drought-tolerant once established.
• Space: Requires a very large area—allow 30+ feet from structures and other trees.

Care & Maintenance

Little pruning needed. Mulch to conserve moisture. Fertilize young trees annually with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Cones take 2–3 years to mature and fall intact—dangerous to people and property below; consider planting away from high-traffic areas or removing cones before they drop.

Uses

Specimen tree for parks, large estates, and botanical gardens. The nuts are a traditional Aboriginal food, roasted or boiled, with a chestnut-like flavor. Timber is high-quality but rarely harvested due to tree's cultural significance.

Cautions

Sharp leaves and falling cones pose safety risks. Protected in some Australian regions. Slow-growing initially; patience required.

A living monument for spacious, frost-free landscapes.