Australian Cypress
Callitris glauca
syn. C. columellaris
White Cypress-Pine
Family: Cupressaceae
Other Common Names: Murray River Pine, Murray River Cypress, Cypress-Pine, Murray Pine (Australia).
Distribution: Widely distributed throughout Australia with main commercial development in New South Wales and Queensland.
The Tree: The tree varies in size according to soil and climate conditions; on suitable sites may reach a height of 100 ft with diameters around 16 in. to 24 in.
The Wood: General Characteristics: The timber is light brown in color with dark brown longitudinal streaks; sapwood varies from pale straw to pinkish tan. Grain is usually straight; texture rather fine; lustrous; aromatic camphor-like odor; greasy feel; many tight, small, dark brown knots.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) 0.58; air-dry density 42 pcf. Janka side hardness 1,030 lb for green material and 1,375 lb at 12% moisture content. Forest Products Laboratory toughness 114 in.-lb green and 65 in.-lb dry (5/6-in. specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood seasons readily but because of low shrinkage is customarily used in the green or partially dried condition; tends to check around knots. Shrinkage green to air dried: radial 2.1%; tangential 2.8%; volumetric 4.0%.
Working Properties: The timber is fairly easy to work although there is some tearing of grain around knots; dresses well to a smooth finish and takes a high polish; some tendency to split when nailed.
Durability: The heartwood is rated as very durable and is highly resistant to attack by both decay fungi and insects, including termites. High resistance to marine organisms is also reported.
Uses: Light construction including siding, flooring, and joinery, posts and poles, decorative veneer, furniture components.
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