Mount Spurgeon Black Pine

Prumnopitys ladei, also known as the Mount Spurgeon Black Pine, is a conifer native to eastern Australia. It is endemic to far north Queensland, which is restricted to Mount Lewis, Mount Spurgeon, and a few other nearby localities. It is well-suited for growing in Australian sub-tropical and temperate conditions, particularly in regions with high rainfall and moderate temperatures. It grows well in warm temperate areas along the coast and can tolerate locations with cold winters, such as Canberra and southern Tasmania (Bruny Island). This tree can grow to a height of up to 30 meters and a width of 15 meters in its natural range, but expect heights of 10 metres in most garden settings.

Prumnopitys ladei is a beautiful, slow-growing conifer with glossy green foliage that is stiff and fern-like, with leaves approximately 2 cm in length. The bark is black and flakey and uniquely patterned.

Male and female cones are borne on separate plants, and the fleshy blue seed may occur sporadically throughout the year. It can be propagated easily by cuttings or by seed. Cuttings would be necessary to guarantee either a male or female plant.

The tree prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, clay and loamy soils; however, they will handle heavier soils if protected and mulched. All soils can be improved by adding well-rotted organic matter, such as compost, before planting. It prefers a full sun exposure location but can also tolerate partial shade.