Ross Evans Garden Centre Logo

Cousin It

Botanical Name: Casuarina glauca

‘Cousin It’ is a prostrate, ground-hugging cultivar of the Australian native Swamp She-oak (Casuarina glauca). It features dense, cascading foliage composed of fine, needle-like branchlets that create a lush, green carpet effect. This low-maintenance plant typically grows to a height of 10 to 20 centimeters and can spread up to 1 to 2 meters wide, making it ideal for use as a ground cover, on embankments, rocky slopes, and over retaining walls. ‘Cousin It’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Its vigorous growth habit and ability to suppress weeds make it a valuable addition to many garden styles.

Plant Growing Tips

Where to Grow

Casuarina Cousin It (*Casuarina glauca* 'Cousin It') thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well as a ground cover for rockeries, embankments, or slopes. Known for its cascading, dense green foliage, it is effective for erosion control and covering larger areas. Ensure the planting site has well-draining soil, as Casuarina Cousin It tolerates various soil types, including sandy and clay soils.

Climate

Suited for temperate to subtropical climates, Casuarina Cousin It can withstand light frost and is highly drought-tolerant once established. This hardy plant performs best in mild regions with moderate humidity.

Soil Type

Plant in well-draining soil. Casuarina Cousin It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, from sandy to clay, and prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Adding compost can improve soil structure but is generally low-maintenance in soil requirements.

Fertilizer

Feed sparingly with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth. This plant typically requires minimal fertiliser once established.

Plant Care

Watering

Water regularly during the first year to establish roots. Once established, both plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering, though occasional deep watering in prolonged dry periods will keep them looking lush.

Pruning

Minimal pruning is required. Trim back any overgrown or dead stems in early spring to maintain shape. Both plants naturally form neat, cascading shapes with little intervention.

Pests

Both plants are resistant to most pests and diseases. Monitor for any aphids or scale, especially in humid climates, and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.

Ross Evans Garden Centre footer logo
Runaway Bay Super Store
300 Oxley Drive, Coombabah QLD 4216
0488 010 656
Kenmore Super Store
2274 Moggill Rd, Kenmore QLD
0488 000 525
Morningside Super Store
451 Lytton Rd, Morningside QLD
0447 792 994
© Copyright – Ross Evans Garden Centre
×