Whistling Pine is a large evergreen tree upto 30 m high with a straight bole and stout stem covered with a black bark. It has a conifer-like appearance which is increased by several drooping branchlets and cone-like fruits.

The tree is unisexual i.e., male and female flowers appear on separate trees. The male flowers or cones appear on terminal green needles, while the female cones are produced on woody branches. The brownish woody cones bear tiny winged seeds.

The wood is hard and is used as fuel. It is reputed for its high calorific value. It is also used for poles. The bark is used as astringent and tanning material. It is known as Beefwood tree because to its dark brown wood.

The species name equisetifolia refers to its leaves that look like a horse's tail.

The soft singing of the air through its innumerable slender twigs is a pleasant sound, which lends it the common name Whistling Pine.

The tree thrives best in coastal regions and is planted with other vegetation to check soil erosion. It requires strong sunlight and should not be planted under shade.