Callitris glauca syn. C. columellaris Family: Cupressaceae White Cypress-Pine

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.

Mechanical Properties: (2-in. standard)

Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing strength (%) (Psi) (1,000 psi) (Psi) Green (6) 10,300 1,110 5,220

12% 11,400 1,300 7,610

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. Preservation: No information available.

Uses: Light construction including siding, flooring, and joinery, posts and poles, decorative veneer, furniture components.

Additional Reading:: (2), (3), (6)

From: Chudnoff, Martin. 1984. Tropical Timbers of the World. USDA Forest Service. Ag. Handbook No. 607.

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