Callitris Calcarata is a species of evergreen tree native to Australia. Its name is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet or IPA, a system of symbols used to represent the sounds of spoken language. "Callitris" is pronounced /kəˈlɪtrɪs/, with the stress on the second syllable, while "Calcarata" is pronounced /kælˈkærətə/, with the stress on the first syllable. The correct spelling of the tree's name is important for proper identification and classification in scientific studies and conservation efforts.
Callitris calcarata, commonly known as the Atherton Cypress, is a species of coniferous tree belonging to the Cupressaceae family. Native to Australia, specifically the Atherton Tableland region of Queensland, it is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree with a slender and conical shape.
The botanical name of Callitris calcarata is derived from the Greek words "kalli" meaning beautiful and "treis" meaning three, referring to its beautiful triangular foliage arrangement. The species name "calcarata" refers to the presence of small tubercles or spines often found on the branchlets.
The Atherton Cypress typically reaches a height of 10 to 20 meters, with a diameter at breast height ranging from 30 to 50 centimeters. It features dense, fine-textured foliage composed of scale-like leaves. The leaves have a gray-green coloration and exude a pleasant resinous aroma when crushed. The bark of the tree is thin, smooth, and reddish-brown in color, often peeling off in small flakes.
Callitris calcarata is dioecious, meaning that male and female reproductive structures occur on separate trees. The species produces small, woody cones that contain numerous seeds. These cones are typically spherical in shape and have a diameter of around 1 to 1.5 centimeters when mature.
The timber of Callitris calcarata is highly valued due to its durability, resistance to decay, and attractive grain patterns. It has been traditionally used for various purposes including construction, furniture making, and as a source of firewood.
In its natural habitat, Callitris calcarata is often found growing alongside other native Australian plant species such as eucalyptus. The
The word "Callitris" is derived from the Greek words "kalos" (meaning beautiful) and "treis" (meaning three), referring to the arrangement of leaves in threes that is characteristic of many species in the genus.
"Calcarata" is a Latin word meaning "spurred", which likely refers to the presence of spurs or spine-like projections on the branches or cones of the Callitris calcarata species.