Athrotaxis selaginoides

Botanical Description

Athrotaxis selaginoides is an evergreen tree with a long, conical crown when young, becoming irregular with age; it can grow up to 30 metres tall. The bole is usually straight and cylindrical, though it can be twisted and is sometimes multi-stemmed in open sites; it can be up to 150cm in diameter[ 329 Title The Gymnosperm Database Publication Author Website http://www.conifers.org/index.htm Publisher Year 0 ISBN Description A vast amount of information on conifers and families of gymnosperms. ]. The tree provides some excellent wood for special uses like wood carving and turning. However, virtually all trees, including dead wood, are now within protected areas and removal is prohibited. Athrotaxis selaginoides is only found in southeast Tasmania, where its total range is substantially less than 2,000 km². The population is severely fragmented and it is estimated that there has been a population reduction of at least 40% over the last 200 years (three generations would be about 300 years), primarily due to fires. While decline has slowed, it has not ceased. The plant is classified as 'Vulnerable' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[ 338 Title IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Publication Author Website http://www.iucnredlist.org/ Publisher Year 0 ISBN Description A list of plants under threat and facing possible extinction, usually with brief details of the threats and information on habitat. ].