Casuarina glauca ‘Cousin It’ (Cousin It Casuarina)
Casuarina ‘Cousin It’ is a distinctive, low-growing Australian native groundcover valued for its dense, cascading habit and fine, trailing foliage. It is widely used in rockeries, retaining walls, and large containers where a dramatic, flowing effect is desired.
The plant produces long, trailing stems covered in fine, needle-like foliage in soft green tones. The growth forms a thick, mounded cushion that spills over edges, creating a layered, cascading appearance.
Key Features
‘Cousin It’ is known for its unique weeping groundcover form, unlike upright Casuarina varieties.
It creates a dense mat that suppresses weeds and covers large areas over time.
It is hardy and tolerant of coastal conditions, wind, and dry environments.
Growth Habit and Size
This variety grows as a low, spreading groundcover with trailing stems.
It typically reaches 20 to 30 cm in height, with a spread of 1.5 to 3 metres or more. Growth rate is moderate.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages denser growth.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is drought tolerant.
Water occasionally during extended dry periods.
Soil
Prefers well-draining soil and performs well in sandy or poor soils.
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for temperate to coastal climates. It tolerates wind, salt spray, heat, and light frost.
Maintenance
Very low maintenance. Minimal pruning is required.
Trim lightly if needed to control spread or maintain shape.
Fertilise lightly if required, though it generally thrives without heavy feeding.
Common Issues
Poor drainage may lead to root issues.
Can spread widely, so allow adequate space.
Generally pest and disease resistant.
Applications
Casuarina ‘Cousin It’ is suitable for:
Groundcover
Rockeries and slopes
Retaining walls (cascading effect)
Coastal gardens
Large containers
Low-maintenance landscapes
Its trailing habit makes it a standout for softening hard edges.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Casuarina glauca ‘Cousin It’ |
| Common Name |
Cousin It Casuarina |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen groundcover |
| Mature Height |
20 cm to 30 cm |
| Growth Habit |
Spreading, cascading |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Direct Sunlight |
Preferred |
| Watering Frequency |
Low once established |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, sandy or poor soils |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Temperate to coastal |
| Frost Tolerance |
Light frost |
| Drought Tolerance |
High |
| Maintenance Level |
Very low |
| Fertiliser |
Minimal |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Casuarina ‘Cousin It’
Is it a tree like other Casuarinas?
No, this is a low, groundcover variety.
Does it spread a lot?
Yes, it can spread several metres over time.
Is it good for coastal areas?
Yes, it tolerates wind and salt.
Does it need much water?
No, it is drought tolerant once established.
Can it be used in pots?
Yes, especially in large containers where it can trail.
How big does it grow?
Typically 20 to 30 cm high and up to 3 metres wide.
