The leaves of Horsetail Tree have degenerated into miniature teeth, and the green branches of the tree assume the role of leaves to carry out photosynthesis. These slender branches are connected in nodes, and look very much like pine needles. People may mistake it for a pine at first sight. However, Horsetail Tree is unrelated to the pines. It is a common species on seashores because it resists the wind and tolerates salt spray.