Massive subtropical Queensland conifer reaching 45 m with a characteristic dome-shaped crown and stiff spiny dark leaves. Bears enormous (10 kg) cones every 3–4 years containing large edible seeds.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 9–11 | −6.7 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H3 | −5 °C to 1 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 3–6 | −5 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Native to the Bunya Mountains and adjacent areas of southeastern Queensland
- Large edible seeds (bunya nuts) — culturally significant to Aboriginal peoples, who historically held inter-tribal gatherings every 3 years when the trees produced mass crops
- WARNING: Falling cones weigh 5–10 kg each and drop from 30 m+ height — site away from paths, parking, and seating; many Australian botanical gardens close off the area beneath bunyas during the bunya nut harvest
- Eventually 40+ m — site for the very long term, only suitable for large open gardens, parks, and farms
- Not reliably hardy outdoors in Canada — Canadian zone values shown represent the system maximum and do not imply garden cultivation north of the warmest coastal pockets.
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Related plants
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