Wollemi pine 140/160cm (15L)

The Wollemi Pine – Wollemia nobilis is one of the world’s oldest and rarest plants, often described as a living fossil. Discovered in 1994 in a remote canyon in the Wollemi National Park of Australia, this prehistoric conifer dates back over 200 million years to the age of the dinosaurs. Now available at 140/160cm in a 15-litre pot, this extraordinary specimen offers gardeners the chance to grow a piece of botanical history.

This ancient conifer features distinctive dark green foliage with a unique bubbly bark texture that becomes more pronounced with age. The juvenile foliage emerges in a striking lime-green colour before maturing to a deeper green, creating an attractive contrast throughout the growing season. The growth habit is upright and pyramidal, with whorled branches that give the tree an architectural quality perfect for specimen planting.

Wollemia nobilis adapts remarkably well to cultivation in temperate climates, proving more cold-hardy than many gardeners expect from an Australian native. The tree thrives in sheltered positions where it’s protected from harsh winds, making it ideal for woodland gardens, large borders, or as a focal point in spacious settings. Its prehistoric lineage and rarity make it an exceptional conversation piece that adds both historical significance and visual interest to any planting scheme.

The Wollemi Pine grows at a moderate pace, allowing you to enjoy its development over many years. Young specimens like this 140/160cm plant are at an ideal size for establishing in their permanent position, giving them time to develop strong root systems before reaching their ultimate proportions. The tree’s relatively narrow spread makes it suitable for gardens where space is at a premium compared to other large conifers.

Care Guide

Plant your Wollemi Pine in a sheltered location with protection from cold winds and late frosts, particularly whilst establishing. Choose a spot that receives full sun to partial shade, though some protection from intense afternoon sun is beneficial in warmer regions. The soil should be well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral, and enriched with organic matter before planting.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep root system, particularly during dry spells. Once established, the tree becomes more drought-tolerant, though it appreciates consistent moisture during prolonged dry periods. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which can promote soft growth vulnerable to frost damage. Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any damaged or dead branches in late spring after the risk of severe frost has passed.

Protect young specimens during their first few winters with horticultural fleece if temperatures drop below -5°C, particularly in exposed positions. Established trees are hardier, tolerating temperatures down to approximately -10°C. The distinctive bark becomes more prominent with age, developing its characteristic bubbly texture that makes mature specimens so recognisable.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres