Callitris sulcata, as described in 1907 by (Parlatore) Rudolf Schlechter (1872-1925), in Botanische Jahrbüscher füsr Systematik, Pflanzengeschichte und Pflanzengeographie, 39th edition, is commonly known as Threadleaf chandelier cypress or Nié, as well as Sapin de Comboui in the French language. The species name describes the distinctive groove (sulcus) down the center of mature, open seed cones.
Ethnobotany. Traditionally it was used in the construction of wooden houses; the wood is very resistant to rot and to insects. Posts are still recovered in old houses and used for new construction. Historically, the wood was used for railway sleepers. In 2001, in a traditional sacred place located in St Joseph de Borendi, a monument was built in memory of the renovation of the church, and six barked trunks of old seed bearing individuals have been erected as permanent symbols of the six clans of the local tribe united with the church.
Description. Threadleaf chandelier cypress is an evergreen coniferous species or tree that grows to mature heights of (5 - 12 m) tall with a trunk up to (40 cm) in diameter, measured at breast height. The crown is dense with tufted branches.
