Australian Teak

Flindersia australis, commonly known as the Australian Teak and the Queensland Silver Ash, is a large evergreen tree native to Australia. Due to its attractive bark and large compound leaves, it is a popular ornamental tree and is used on suburban streetscapes in NSW and QLD.

The tree can grow up to 50-60 meters in height and 20-30 meters in width, with larger trees usually having a buttressed trunk and a large, spreading canopy. The bark is brown and scaly and sheds in oval flakes, leaving depressions which give the trunk a spotted appearance. It is rough and fissured, with a distinctive silver-grey colour. The leaves are usually arranged alternately and are crowded near the ends of the branchlets with between five and nine elliptical to egg-shaped leaflets and are green and glossy.

Flindersia australis prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5-7. It is also tolerant of a wide range of soils, including clay and sand, but it prefers soils that are moist and rich in organic matter. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

When planting Flindersia australis, it is essential to give it plenty of room to grow, as it can reach a height of 50-60 meters and a spread of 20-30 meters. It is also essential to ensure that the soil is well-prepared and that the tree is planted at the same depth as in the container. After planting, it is vital to water the tree well and provide it with adequate moisture until it is established.

This is ideal for creating shade in large, stately gardens, woodland and rainforest gardens or as a stunning ornamental.