This curious-looking tree with its unmistakable trailing coniferous branches is native to Tasmania. Several years ago, it only grew in the south-western extremities of this island, where it thrived on the wet weather and Antarctic winter blasts. In order to adapt to this inhospitable climate, it evolved an exceptionally slow growth rate. As a result, the Huon pine became extremely long-lived, and there are still a few specimens that might be as old as 10,000 years. The Huon pine’s fine timber was once a prized commodity on Tasmania, and trees were massacred by the early settlers with great enthusiasm. Nowadays, we are much more appreciative of such fine examples of our natural heritage, and Huon pines are mainly used for such essential items as salad bowls and souvenirs.