Casuarina equisetifolia is a beautiful tree but as with so many trees, it is not necesarily graceful in youth. But it will develop its proper form with age.

Although others commonly recommend cosmetic or compensatory pruning at planting, research shows that leaving as much foliage on the plant as possible at planting will allow the plant to produce more roots more quickly and hence anchor the plant and further aid in establishment.

Especially don't "top" it.

Joe

Thanks Joe..that was my gut feeling.They really grow into magnificent trees here. I hate pruning trees!

Nada