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Bunya pine

Araucaria bidwilliifam. Podocarpaceae
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edibletall treesdrought tolerantedibleedible seednative amshade toleranttree
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Araucaria bidwillii (Bunya pine) — botanical photograph
Pl. EA90 — Araucaria bidwillii
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Overview

The Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii), a coniferous tree native to the rainforests of Queensland, Australia, is a towering evergreen that can grow up to 40 meters in height. Thriving in moist conditions with light to partial shade, this tree is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Native to Queensland, the Bunya pine is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. Known for its edible seeds, which are harvested by indigenous communities and can be eaten raw or roasted, the Bunya pine also serves as an ornamental tree due to its distinctive cone-bearing habit and attractive form. Its adaptability and ornamental value make it a valuable addition to both natural and cultivated settings. While the seeds are safe to consume, caution should be exercised to ensure they are properly prepared and not contaminated.

Quick answers

What is Bunya pine?

The Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii), a coniferous tree native to the rainforests of Queensland, Australia, is a towering evergreen that can grow up to 40 meters in height.

Compare with:Alpine Totara→Kusamaki→Matai→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Bunya pine thrives in full to partial sun, requiring moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 9-11, making it suitable for subtropical climates. The plant can grow up to 40 meters tall, so ample space is necessary. For propagation, seeds can be used. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-11
Mature size
40.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Bunya pine for the first time

8steps

Start with a Bunya pine as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Bunya pine sapling and well-draining soil.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is light, medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend if necessary.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant a young sapling from a nursery pot to your garden bed.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun or partial shade. Water when dry, especially in hot weather.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune young trees to shape them; seeds can be harvested after the cones mature.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poor soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The Bunya pine's seed is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often roasted to enhance its flavor before consumption. The seeds are also used in various dishes, though specific preparation methods are not detailed here.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

1 native · 1 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 1 native· 1 introduced
Broader regions
native:Queensland
introduced:Réunion
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Araucaria bidwillii (Bunya pine) — botanical photograph
Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII

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