$3.50
In stock
Height
Fast growing, low maintenance, graceful evergreen tree 5 to 8m tall with a width of 4m.
Foliage/Bark
Pendulous, weeping, grey/green pine-like foliage. One of the best features of this plant is the soft rustling sounds which it produces during strong winds and small breezes, the shivering sound of the wind through the leaves adds a great sensory element – very relaxing! Leaves may turn a dark purple hue in cooler months which adds to aesthetic appeal. Attractive corky, light brown bark that has deep fissures, this species is noted for its high value timber. It has a narrow and upright growth habit, ornamental in appearance and can live for several decades – up to 100 years! Forest oaks are relatively pest and disease free and are not killed by wildfire.
Flower
Dioetious, separate male and female flowers, sometimes on the same plant. Flowering occurs in autumn through winter, male trees turn gold when laden with pollen and females have small red flowers – only females bear the “cone” like fruit.
Soil
This species is known to improve soil fertility by forming symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules. Generally, it grows in soils with low nutrient levels but is capable of thriving in more fertile soil – highly adaptable.
Aspect
Full sun, though it can tolerate partial shade. Drought tolerant once established. A terrific low maintenance plant, apart from some leaf litter, but this makes a great self-mulching weed deterrent.
What does it attract?
The trees are often used for bird-attracting, as their seeds are a significant food source for the yellow-tailed black-cockatoo.
Tips
Avoid over fertilising, prune early spring if required, useful for street planting, where there are no powerlines, screening and for wind breaks. Tolerates moderate frost, saline soils & salt spray
Vegetation Community
Sclerophyll forest, woodlands and occasionally rainforest margins.
This sheoak species does not sucker