Exocarpos cupressiformis
Exocarpos cupressiformis · Santalaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around exocarpos cupressiformis and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Australian sandalwood, Exocarpos cupressiformis
- Foliage
- Evergreen, fine and linear, conifer-like appearance
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer, small inconspicuous flowers
- Adult size
- 1.5 to 3 m tall, narrow columnar habit
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Tolerates moderate frosts, prefers mild climates
- Origin
- Eastern Australia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light soil, tolerates aridity
Care
Light
Position your Exocarpos in full sun or partial shade. It develops best with at least 6 hours of direct daily sunlight. Avoid overly shaded areas that will slow its growth and encourage etiolation.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year of establishment, then gradually space waterings. Once established, it will tolerate dry periods thanks to its deep root system. Ensure impeccable drainage to prevent root suffocation, particularly in winter.
Soil
Choose a light, sandy or gravelly substrate that drains well. Exocarpos hates waterlogged soil. Adding sand or gravel at planting improves soil structure and encourages rooting.
Pruning and form
Requires little pruning as it naturally maintains its columnar habit. Prune lightly after flowering if you wish to densify the silhouette or remove dead branches. Avoid heavy pruning that would leave visible scars.
Fertilizer
Not demanding, annual feeding in spring is sufficient. Use a balanced, lightly-dosed fertilizer. In naturally poor soil, a compost application will suffice without excess nitrogen, which would weaken disease resistance.
Health and prevention
Generally robust, it can be affected by root rot in overly wet soil. Excellent drainage and good foliage aeration limit risks. Watch for scale insects and spider mites in very dry or confined environments.
Did you know?
Exocarpos cupressiformis is semi-parasitic: its roots connect to the roots of neighbouring plants to absorb water and minerals. In Australia, Aboriginal peoples and colonists long planted it as an ornamental tree and windbreak. Its name "Exocarpos" literally means "external fruit", as its small bright red drupe rests on a very distinctive thickened base.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.