Larger Growing Plants

Agathis robusta Kauri Pine

Description:Agathis robusta, commonly known as Kauri Pine, is a large, evergreen conifer native to Australia and parts of Papua New Guinea. Renowned for its tall, straight trunk and dense, glossy foliage, this majestic tree is widely grown for its timber and as an ornamental feature in large landscapes. Kauri Pine has a symmetrical, pyramidal form when young, becoming more rounded and spreading with age. Its slow-growing yet impressive stature makes it a focal point in parks, gardens, and public spaces. Flowers:As a conifer, Agathis robusta produces cones rather than flowers. Male cones are small, cylindrical, and located at the ends of branches, while female cones are larger, globular, and found on the upper branches. The cones are not considered ornamental features but are essential for seed production. Foliage:The leaves of Agathis robusta are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, becoming more scale-like as the tree matures. The dense foliage creates a lush, full appearance that provides excellent shade. The evergreen nature of the tree ensures year-round interest, with the shiny leaves reflecting light and creating a vibrant display. Fruit:The fruit of Agathis robusta consists of large, woody seed cones that disintegrate when mature, releasing seeds. These cones can grow up to 10 cm in diameter and are found high up in the tree's canopy. While the cones add texture, they are not the tree’s main ornamental feature. Form and Size:Agathis robusta is a tall tree, reaching heights of 30-40 meters in cultivation, with some specimens growing even taller in their natural habitat. The tree’s form is pyramidal when young, becoming more rounded and spreading as it matures. Its straight, columnar trunk and dense canopy make it an impressive addition to large landscapes. Growing Conditions:This tree thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, fertile soils. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. Agathis robusta is drought-tolerant once established and can withstand light frosts. It is ideal for subtropical and tropical climates, where it benefits from regular rainfall, but it can also be grown in temperate regions with minimal frost. Uses:Agathis robusta is primarily grown for its timber, which is highly valued for its strength and durability. In gardens and landscapes, it is used as a feature tree due to its imposing size and attractive foliage. It is well-suited to parks, large gardens, and public spaces where its size can be accommodated. The tree also provides excellent shade and can be used as a windbreak. Maintenance:This tree is low-maintenance once established. Prune young trees to shape them, but mature trees require little to no pruning. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and protect the roots, particularly in drier climates. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth, especially in the early years of establishment. Notes:Agathis robusta is a long-lived tree that can survive for hundreds of years. It is a significant timber tree in Australia and is also valued for its aesthetic qualities in large landscapes. Its slow growth and eventual large size make it more suited to parks or large properties rather than small gardens. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other large Australian natives such as Eucalyptus and Araucaria. It also complements tropical understory plants like Cordyline and Alpinia, which thrive in the dappled shade provided by its canopy. Common Name: Kauri PineBotanical Name: Agathis robustaFamily: AraucariaceaeOrigin: Australia, Papua New Guinea

alloxylum Flammeum - QLD tree Warratah

Alloxylon flammeum - Queensland Tree Waratah Description: Alloxylon flammeum, commonly known as the Queensland Tree Waratah, is a magnificent, medium-sized tree renowned for its vibrant, fiery-red flowers. This Australian native is highly prized for its striking ornamental appeal and its ability to attract birds and pollinators, making it a stunning addition to any garden or landscape. Flowers: The flowers of Alloxylon flammeum are the main attraction. They are large, bright red, and arranged in dense, rounded clusters at the ends of the branches. Blooming from late winter to early summer, these spectacular flowers are a magnet for birds, particularly nectar-feeding species. The striking red blooms provide a dramatic splash of color in the garden. Foliage: The foliage of the Queensland Tree Waratah consists of large, glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and have a leathery texture. The leaves provide a lush, green backdrop that enhances the vivid display of flowers and adds to the tree's ornamental appeal. Form and Size: Alloxylon flammeum has an upright, spreading growth habit, typically reaching up to 10-20 meters (33-66 feet) in height and 5-10 meters (16-33 feet) in spread. Its tall, elegant form and dense canopy make it an excellent choice for use as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or as a focal point in larger gardens. Growing Conditions: Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright light but can tolerate some shade, particularly in hotter climates. Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Water: Moderate water requirements. Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it can tolerate short periods of drought. Temperature: Thrives in warm, temperate to subtropical climates. Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Protect from frost and cold temperatures. Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Suitable for typical garden conditions without the need for additional humidity. Uses: Alloxylon flammeum is primarily grown for its ornamental value. It makes a stunning focal point in garden beds, large containers, and as a specimen tree. The tree's vibrant flowers and lush foliage create a tropical feel, making it ideal for themed gardens and landscapes. It is also an excellent choice for attracting birds and pollinators to the garden. Maintenance: This plant requires moderate maintenance. Regular watering and fertilization during the growing season will promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Notes: Alloxylon flammeum is non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and children. It is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or scale insects, which can be treated with appropriate insecticides. Companion Plants: Alloxylon flammeum pairs well with other tropical and subtropical plants that have similar growing requirements, such as: Grevillea species Callistemon species (Bottlebrush) Banksia species Acacia species Common Name: Queensland Tree Waratah Botanical Name: Alloxylon flammeum Family: Proteaceae Origin: Native to Queensland, Australia

Araucaria heterophylla Norfolk Island Pine

Description:Araucaria heterophylla, commonly known as Norfolk Island Pine, is a tall, evergreen conifer that is widely recognized for its symmetrical, pyramidal shape and whorled branches. Native to Norfolk Island in the Pacific Ocean, this iconic tree is often used as an ornamental feature in gardens, parks, and coastal areas. While it can grow to impressive heights outdoors, it is also popular as an indoor plant when young, prized for its elegant and soft-textured foliage. Flowers:As a conifer, Araucaria heterophylla does not produce traditional flowers. Instead, it produces small male cones and larger female cones. The cones are not particularly ornamental and are rarely seen in indoor or young specimens. Foliage:The soft, needle-like leaves of Araucaria heterophylla are bright green and arranged in a distinctive, spiraled pattern along the branches. The foliage has a soft, feathery appearance, adding to the tree's ornamental appeal, especially in young plants. The leaves become darker and more scale-like as the tree matures. Fruit:The tree produces large, woody seed cones that can reach up to 10-15 cm in diameter. These cones contain seeds, but they are not a major feature of the plant, especially in younger specimens or indoor settings. Form and Size:In its natural habitat, Araucaria heterophylla can grow up to 50-65 meters tall. However, in cultivation, especially in gardens or as an indoor plant, it typically reaches around 20-30 meters outdoors and much smaller heights indoors. Its symmetrical, pyramidal form and neatly arranged branches give it an architectural elegance, making it a popular choice for large landscapes or as a feature tree. Growing Conditions:Araucaria heterophylla thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils, making it well-suited to coastal environments. The tree is salt-tolerant and can withstand salty coastal winds. It prefers mild, frost-free climates but can tolerate light frost. When grown indoors, it requires bright, indirect light and should be kept away from drafts and cold temperatures. Uses:This tree is commonly used as an ornamental feature in large gardens, parks, or coastal landscapes. It is also a popular indoor plant when young, often used as a decorative tree during the holiday season. Its symmetrical form and striking foliage make it a standout in any landscape, and its ability to tolerate salt and wind makes it perfect for coastal plantings. Maintenance:Araucaria heterophylla is a low-maintenance plant. Outdoors, it requires little pruning other than to remove dead or damaged branches. Indoors, it should be kept in a bright location with regular watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth. Notes:Norfolk Island Pine is a long-lived tree that can grow for decades, making it a valuable addition to large landscapes. It is often associated with coastal environments but can be successfully grown in urban areas as well. Indoors, it can live for many years if given proper care, although it grows much more slowly than outdoors. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other large conifers like Agathis or Cupressus, as well as coastal plants like Banksia and Melaleuca. It also works well with tropical plants like Cordyline or Alpinia in large garden designs. Common Name: Norfolk Island PineBotanical Name: Araucaria heterophyllaFamily: AraucariaceaeOrigin: Norfolk Island

Buckinghamia celssima

Description:Buckinghamia celsissima, commonly known as Ivory Curl Tree, is a stunning evergreen tree native to Australia, prized for its lush foliage and striking creamy-white flower clusters. This versatile tree can be grown as a large shrub or medium-sized tree, depending on pruning. It is perfect for use as a feature plant, shade tree, or screening plant, and its attractive flowers make it a favorite for wildlife gardens. Buckinghamia celsissima is highly adaptable to a range of growing conditions and is widely planted in both residential and public landscapes. Flowers:The Ivory Curl Tree produces beautiful, creamy-white, bottlebrush-like flowers that appear in dense, curled clusters at the ends of branches. These fragrant flowers bloom from late summer to autumn and are highly attractive to pollinators, including birds and bees. The flower clusters can reach up to 20 cm in length, creating a striking display. Foliage:The dark green, glossy leaves are deeply lobed and leathery, giving the tree a lush, tropical appearance. The new growth often has a bronze tint, adding seasonal interest. The dense foliage provides excellent shade and screening, making it a useful plant for creating privacy. Fruit:After flowering, small, woody seed capsules may develop, but they are not a prominent feature of the plant. Form and Size:Buckinghamia celsissima typically grows to a height of 8–10 meters but can be pruned to maintain a smaller, more shrub-like form. In its natural form, it develops a rounded, upright canopy, making it a great choice for providing shade. The tree has a naturally dense and bushy habit, which also makes it effective for use as a screen or hedge. Growing Conditions:Thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. Buckinghamia celsissima is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including loamy and sandy soils, and is drought-tolerant once established. It can tolerate light frost but performs best in warm, subtropical climates. Regular mulching around the base of the tree will help retain moisture and promote healthy growth. Uses:The Ivory Curl Tree is ideal as a feature plant, shade tree, or screening plant in both formal and informal garden designs. Its fragrant flowers and dense foliage make it perfect for wildlife gardens, providing both nectar for pollinators and shelter for birds. It can also be used as a privacy screen or grown in large containers. Maintenance:Low-maintenance and relatively fast-growing, Buckinghamia celsissima benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth. Mulch and water regularly, especially when young, to establish strong root growth. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer in spring will support healthy foliage and flowering. Notes:The Ivory Curl Tree is highly valued for its ornamental flowers and lush foliage, making it a popular choice in many Australian gardens. It is generally pest and disease-resistant, making it a reliable, low-maintenance option for a range of garden settings. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other Australian natives such as Grevillea, Callistemon, and Melaleuca. It also works beautifully alongside other tropical or subtropical plants like Cordyline and Alpinia for a lush, vibrant garden. Common Name: Ivory Curl TreeBotanical Name: Buckinghamia celsissimaFamily: ProteaceaeOrigin: Australia

Delonix Regia "Poinsiana"

Description:Delonix regia, commonly known as Royal Poinciana or Flamboyant Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree renowned for its vibrant display of fiery red to orange flowers in spring and summer. This tropical tree, native to Madagascar, boasts a broad, umbrella-like canopy, providing ample shade and making it a popular feature in warm climates. Its graceful, spreading form and brilliant floral display make it one of the most spectacular flowering trees for tropical and subtropical gardens. Flowers:The showy, vivid red-orange flowers are produced in large clusters, covering the tree in a spectacular display during late spring to summer. Each flower consists of five petals, with one often marked with a contrasting yellow or white blotch. The blooms attract pollinators, including birds and bees, and are followed by long, brown seed pods. Foliage:The leaves of Delonix regia are large, feathery, and bipinnate, giving the tree a soft, fern-like appearance. Each leaf is composed of numerous small leaflets, which provide a light, filtered shade underneath. In cooler climates, the tree sheds its leaves in winter, while in tropical climates, it may remain semi-evergreen. Fruit:After the flowering season, long, flat seed pods form, reaching up to 60 cm in length. These pods are dark brown when mature and can add an interesting textural element to the tree. The pods persist on the tree for some time before falling. Form and Size:Delonix regia grows into a wide, spreading tree with an umbrella-shaped canopy, typically reaching heights of 10-12 meters and spreading up to 15 meters wide. Its expansive canopy makes it an excellent shade tree, though it requires sufficient space to grow. The trunk is smooth and greyish, becoming more textured with age. Growing Conditions:Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, but it prefers fertile, loamy soils for optimal growth. Delonix regia is drought-tolerant once established and can withstand periods of dry weather. However, it performs best with regular watering during the growing season. It is frost-sensitive and should be protected in cooler climates. Uses:Royal Poinciana is often used as a specimen tree in large gardens or public spaces due to its dramatic floral display and wide canopy. Its shade-giving properties make it ideal for parks, avenues, or large courtyards. It is also a popular choice in tropical and subtropical coastal gardens. Maintenance:Minimal maintenance is required once established. Prune to shape the tree in its early years to develop a strong framework, and remove any dead or damaged branches as needed. Fertilizing in spring with a balanced fertilizer will encourage healthy growth and flowering. The tree may shed flowers and pods, so placement away from paved areas is advisable to avoid debris. Notes:The vibrant floral display of Delonix regia makes it one of the most beloved ornamental trees in tropical regions. It can create a stunning visual impact in large landscapes, but it requires ample space to fully appreciate its spread. Its roots can be invasive, so avoid planting near structures or walkways. Companion Plants:Pairs beautifully with other tropical plants such as Plumeria, Bougainvillea, and Cordyline. Its bright red-orange flowers also contrast well with palms, cycads, and other lush green foliage plants like Philodendron or Heliconia. Common Name: Royal Poinciana, Flamboyant TreeBotanical Name: Delonix regiaFamily: FabaceaeOrigin: Madagascar

Elaeocarpus eumundii

Description:Elaeocarpus eumundii, commonly known as Eumundi Quandong, is an attractive Australian native evergreen tree, prized for its dense, glossy foliage and its neat, pyramidal form. This versatile tree can be grown as a small to medium-sized feature tree, screen, or hedge in gardens, streetscapes, and parks. It is well-suited to subtropical and tropical climates and adds a lush, green presence to the landscape. Elaeocarpus eumundii is appreciated for its low maintenance and ornamental value. Flowers:In spring and early summer, Elaeocarpus eumundii produces small, creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers in clusters. While not particularly showy, these flowers add subtle charm and attract pollinators, such as bees. Foliage:The standout feature of Elaeocarpus eumundii is its dense, glossy, dark green foliage. The leaves are leathery and oval-shaped, with new growth often emerging in a bronze or reddish hue, providing seasonal color variation. The dense canopy and lush foliage create excellent shade and make this tree ideal for screening or as a background plant. Fruit:After flowering, small, blue-black berries appear. These fruits are not typically a major ornamental feature but can attract birds that enjoy feeding on them. Form and Size:Elaeocarpus eumundii typically grows to around 8–12 meters in height with a spread of 3–5 meters, forming a neat, pyramidal shape. It has a naturally upright, compact form, making it a great option for formal hedges, screens, or as a feature tree in medium to large gardens. Growing Conditions:Thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained, fertile soils. Elaeocarpus eumundii is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, and performs best with regular watering, especially in drier periods. It is drought-tolerant once established and can handle light frost in milder climates. Uses:This versatile tree is ideal for use as a screen, hedge, or feature plant. Its dense foliage and compact growth habit make it an excellent choice for creating privacy, while its neat form adds structure to garden designs. Elaeocarpus eumundii is also well-suited for streetscapes and parks, where its low-maintenance nature and attractive foliage can be appreciated. Maintenance:Low-maintenance and easy to care for, this tree benefits from light pruning to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth, particularly if used for hedging or screening. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and maintain its lush appearance. Mulching around the base will help retain moisture and keep roots cool. Notes:Elaeocarpus eumundii is known for its hardiness and adaptability, making it a popular choice for a range of landscapes. Its neat, dense foliage and ornamental value make it a great option for both formal and informal garden settings. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other Australian natives like Grevillea, Callistemon, and Syzygium. Its dense foliage also contrasts nicely with ornamental grasses like Lomandra and flowering shrubs like Westringia. Common Name: Eumundi QuandongBotanical Name: Elaeocarpus eumundiiFamily: ElaeocarpaceaeOrigin: Australia

Jacaranda Mimosafolia - Purple flowers

Description:Jacaranda mimosifolia, commonly known as Jacaranda, is a striking deciduous tree known for its spectacular display of purple-blue flowers in spring and summer. With its broad, spreading canopy and fern-like foliage, it is a favorite feature tree in warm-climate gardens. Native to South America, this tree is widely grown in urban landscapes, parks, and streetscapes for its ornamental beauty. Its graceful form and vibrant floral display make it an iconic tree in subtropical and tropical regions. Flowers:In late spring to early summer, Jacaranda mimosifolia bursts into bloom with clusters of tubular, lavender-blue flowers that cover the branches. These flowers form a stunning, showy display, carpeting the ground in a sea of purple as they fall. The blooms are lightly fragrant and attract pollinators like bees. Foliage:The leaves are bright green and feathery, composed of multiple small leaflets, giving the tree a soft, airy appearance. During the cooler months, the tree is semi-deciduous, shedding its leaves in winter. The delicate foliage creates a light shade, making it ideal for planting over lawns or garden beds where filtered sunlight is needed. Fruit:Following the flowering period, flat, woody seed pods form. These pods are round, brown, and hard, resembling small discs. Though not particularly ornamental, they add interest and persist on the tree after the flowers have fallen. Form and Size:Jacaranda mimosifolia has a broad, spreading canopy with an open, vase-like form. It typically reaches a height of 10-15 meters, with a similar spread. The tree develops an attractive, gnarled trunk as it matures, adding character to its overall appearance. Its graceful, arching branches make it an excellent choice for providing dappled shade. Growing Conditions:This tree thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Jacaranda mimosifolia is drought-tolerant once established but appreciates regular watering during prolonged dry periods, particularly when young. It is frost-sensitive, so it is best suited to warmer climates or protected areas in cooler regions. Uses:Jacaranda mimosifolia is ideal as a feature tree in large gardens or public spaces where its floral display can be fully appreciated. Its spreading canopy provides shade, making it suitable for parks, streetscapes, or planted over garden seating areas. The tree's flowers create a striking visual impact when planted in rows or as a focal point in landscape designs. Maintenance:Relatively low-maintenance, this tree benefits from occasional pruning to remove dead wood and maintain a balanced shape. Water deeply when establishing young trees, and mulch around the base to conserve moisture. Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering. Notes:The Jacaranda is iconic in many warm-climate cities worldwide, celebrated for its vibrant spring blooms. While it is stunning when in flower, the fallen petals can be slippery on footpaths, so this should be considered when planting near walkways or driveways. In some regions, Jacaranda mimosifolia is considered invasive, so it's important to check local guidelines before planting. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other subtropical and Mediterranean plants such as Bougainvillea, Agapanthus, and Callistemon. Its light, filtered shade makes it an ideal companion for underplanting with shrubs like Lavender and Roses. Common Name: JacarandaBotanical Name: Jacaranda mimosifoliaFamily: BignoniaceaeOrigin: South America

Jacaranda mimosifolia alba - White Jacaranda

Description:Jacaranda mimosifolia alba, commonly known as White Jacaranda, is a stunning deciduous tree prized for its beautiful white, trumpet-shaped flowers and graceful, fern-like foliage. A rare variant of the more common purple-flowering Jacaranda, this tree offers a striking display of snow-white blooms, making it an exceptional feature in gardens, streetscapes, and large landscapes. Its elegant form and airy canopy provide light, dappled shade. Flowers:In late spring to early summer, White Jacaranda produces clusters of large, trumpet-shaped, pure white flowers that cover the branches. These fragrant blossoms create a breathtaking display, attracting bees and other pollinators. The tree's flower show is often followed by a light carpet of fallen petals. Foliage:The tree has soft, feathery, fern-like leaves that are a bright green during the growing season. The finely divided leaflets create a delicate, airy canopy that provides light shade. In cooler climates, the foliage may drop in winter, while in warmer regions, the tree may retain some leaves year-round. Fruit:After flowering, the tree develops flat, round, woody seed pods that turn brown as they mature. These pods can persist on the tree through winter, adding subtle ornamental interest. Form and Size:White Jacaranda has an upright, spreading growth habit with an open canopy. It typically reaches a height of 10 to 15 meters with a spread of 8 to 10 meters, making it ideal for larger gardens, parks, and as a street tree where space allows. Growing Conditions:This tree thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during hot, dry periods. White Jacaranda is frost-sensitive, especially when young, and should be planted in a sheltered location in cooler climates. Uses:Ideal as a feature tree in large gardens, parks, and avenues, the White Jacaranda creates a striking visual impact when in bloom. Its open canopy makes it suitable for creating dappled shade over lawns or garden beds. The tree’s elegant form and flowering display also make it a popular choice for streetscapes and public spaces. Maintenance:This tree is relatively low-maintenance once established. Light pruning in late winter or early spring helps shape the tree and remove any dead or crossing branches. A balanced fertilizer applied in early spring can promote healthy growth and flowering. Young trees may require staking and frost protection in colder regions. Notes:White Jacaranda is valued for its rarity, making it a sought-after choice for collectors and gardeners looking for something unique. Its elegant, white blossoms provide a softer, more delicate alternative to the vibrant purple Jacaranda. Companion Plants:Pairs well with other flowering trees like Magnolia and Tabebuia. It also complements evergreen shrubs and ground covers such as Liriope and Agapanthus, adding layers of color and texture to the landscape. Common Name: White JacarandaBotanical Name: Jacaranda mimosifolia albaFamily: BignoniaceaeOrigin: South America (Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia)

Polyalthia longifolia Pendula (Indian Mast Tree)

Description: Polyalthia longifolia 'Pendula', commonly known as the Indian Mast Tree, is a tall, slender evergreen tree renowned for its elegant, cascading foliage and symmetrical form. Native to the Indian subcontinent, this tree is a popular choice for urban landscapes and formal gardens due to its architectural presence and minimal maintenance requirements. Flowers: Small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers appear in spring and early summer. Though not showy, the flowers add a subtle charm to the tree and attract pollinators such as bees. Foliage: The glossy, lance-shaped leaves emerge in a coppery hue before maturing to a vibrant green. The foliage hangs in pendulous clusters, creating a weeping effect that enhances the tree's graceful silhouette. Fruit: Small, ovoid fruits develop after flowering. These fruits are dark green initially and ripen to black, providing a source of food for birds and other wildlife. Form and Size: This tree typically grows to a height of 10–15 meters with a narrow, columnar growth habit. Its cascading branches create a distinctive weeping form, making it ideal for adding vertical interest to gardens. Growing Conditions: Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Soil: Prefers well-drained soils but is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Watering: Requires moderate watering during establishment; once established, it is drought-tolerant. Climate: Suitable for tropical and subtropical regions; tolerates occasional light frost. Uses: As a screening or hedging plant due to its dense, columnar habit. Ideal for formal gardens, avenues, and as a specimen tree for its architectural beauty. Commonly used in urban landscaping for its ability to thrive in polluted environments. Maintenance: Minimal pruning required to maintain its shape. Regularly check for pests such as scale insects, though it is generally pest-resistant. Fertilize during the growing season for optimal growth. Notes: The Indian Mast Tree is known for its resilience and adaptability, making it a valuable addition to a wide range of landscape designs. Its ability to withstand pollution and limited maintenance needs make it a preferred choice in urban settings. Companion Plants: Pairs well with other vertical elements such as Cupressus sempervirens or softer shrubs like Nandina Moon Bay. It also complements flowering plants like Hibiscus rosa-sinensis for added color and contrast. Common Name: Indian Mast TreeBotanical Name: Polyalthia longifolia 'Pendula'Family: AnnonaceaeOrigin: Indian subcontinent

Waterhousia floribunda Amaroo

Description:Waterhousia floribunda 'Amaroo', commonly known as Weeping Lilly Pilly, is a graceful evergreen tree characterized by its pendulous branches and lush, glossy green foliage. It is a versatile Australian native, often used as a feature tree or for hedging and screening due to its dense growth habit. 'Amaroo' is a more compact cultivar of Waterhousia floribunda, making it ideal for smaller gardens or urban spaces while still offering the same elegant, weeping form. Flowers:In spring and summer, Waterhousia floribunda 'Amaroo' produces small, fluffy white to cream-colored flowers. These blooms are subtle but attract pollinators such as bees. The flowers are followed by small, non-showy fruits. Foliage:The foliage is glossy and dark green, with slightly wavy, lance-shaped leaves that create a dense, lush canopy. The new growth often has a reddish or bronze tint, adding seasonal interest. The tree's weeping habit gives it a soft, cascading appearance, which makes it a beautiful ornamental plant. Fruit:Small, inconspicuous green fruits may appear after flowering, but they are not a prominent feature of the tree. These fruits are generally not considered edible. Form and Size:'Amaroo' typically grows to a height of 5-8 meters with a spread of 3-5 meters. Its weeping branches create a flowing, fountain-like form that makes it suitable for use as a screening or hedge plant. This cultivar has a naturally compact growth habit, making it more manageable for smaller gardens than the standard Waterhousia floribunda. Growing Conditions:Thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. While it appreciates regular watering, Waterhousia floribunda 'Amaroo' is drought-tolerant once established. It can tolerate mild frosts and performs well in both tropical and temperate climates. Mulching around the base will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Uses:'Waterhousia floribunda* 'Amaroo' is an excellent choice for privacy screens, hedges, or as a feature tree in formal or informal gardens. Its compact size makes it well-suited to urban landscapes or small garden spaces, and its elegant, weeping form adds softness to any landscape design. Maintenance:Low-maintenance and easy to grow, 'Amaroo' benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape, especially when used as a hedge or screen. Pruning after flowering will encourage bushy growth and maintain its compact form. Fertilizing in spring will support vigorous growth and vibrant foliage. Notes:'Waterhousia floribunda' 'Amaroo' is psyllid-resistant, which makes it a preferred choice over other lilly pilly varieties that are prone to leaf distortion from pest infestations. Its weeping form and compact growth habit make it a standout choice for those seeking an ornamental feature tree with practical benefits. Companion Plants:Pairs well with contrasting plants like Westringia, Syzygium australe, or Lomandra, which offer different textures and forms. It also works beautifully with other native Australian plants, providing a lush, green backdrop to flowering shrubs and grasses. Common Name: Weeping Lilly Pilly 'Amaroo'Botanical Name: Waterhousia floribunda 'Amaroo'Family: MyrtaceaeOrigin: Australia