| Name |
HOOP PINE
Araucaria cunninghamii
Common Names:
Arakaria, Dorrigo Pine, Colonial Pine
|
| Distribution |
Lighter types of rainforest from Coffs Harbour
in NSW to northern Queensland |
| The
Tree |
Large specimens reach a height of 60m. Branches
produced along the trunk in whorls. Much variation
between trees depending on location. Small, rigid,
sharply pointed, incurved leaves produce a snakeskin
like effect. Bark heavily impregnated with resin,
and in fallen trees is much more resistant to decay
than the wood. |
| The
Timber |
A first-class softwood varying from almost white
to cream or light brown. A plain timber of even
texture without prominent grain or growth rings.
Peels easily: the Australian plywood industry was
founded largely on hoop pine. Virtually odourless. |
| Seasoning |
Light in weight, soft with low shrinkage. |
| Durability |
Durable in the dry but may be susceptible to
fungi. |
| Uses |
Plywood, cabinet work, furniture, flooring, mouldings
and linings, boat building. At one time used for
butter boxes, fruit boxes. |
| Availability |
Now a rare timber. A good tree can be seen growing
in the Adelaide Botanical Gardens |
| Working
Qualities |
Easy to work. Readily accepts a wide variety of
stains and finishes. |
| Availability |
Grows successfully in plantations. Widely available |
