Family: Araucariaceae

Cook’s pine is a large coniferous evergreen tree native to New Caledonia and commonly planted in Hawaiʻi. It makes a suitable replacement for imported Christmas trees, although it doesn’t have a scent. It can make a beautiful specimen or bonsai subject. This tree is drought and salt tolerant once it is established and makes an excellent windbreak.

Its best use may be on the island of Lanai, where the needle-like foliage catches water from the passing clouds. The captured fog drip recharges the groundwater for this dry area in the rain shadow.

Plant Uses:

• Bonsai
• Container plant
• Hedge
• Ornamental
• Privacy / screening
• Shade
• Specimen
• Windbreak
• Woodworking
• Bonzai

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized on the Hawaiian Islands of O'ahu, Molokai, Lana'i and Maui
  
• Suited to tropical/subtropical climates
  
• History of intentional introductions
  
• Tolerates and recovers from damage
  
• Wind-dispersed seeds

Low Risk Traits:

• Not weedy
  
• Limited seed production in cultivation
  
• No persistent seed bank
  
• Slow maturation (4+ years)
  
• Requires cross-pollination
  
• No vegetative spread