'Casuarina' originates from the Malay word 'kasuari,' referring to the cassowary bird, due to the resemblance of the tree's twigs to the bird's feathers.

'Casuarina' was adopted into English from the Malay word 'kasuari,' which was used to describe the tree's unique appearance.

Initially, it referred to the tree's resemblance to cassowary feathers, and this meaning has remained consistent.