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Description
Flindersia Australis, commonly known as the Queensland maple, is a hardwood tree native to Australia. It belongs to the family Rutaceae and is a popular choice for furniture making and construction due to its durability and unique appearance. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. It is a slow-growing tree that can live for up to 200 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Flindersia |
Appearance
The bark of Flindersia Australis is gray and smooth, with a slightly mottled appearance. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and divided into five to nine leaflets. The flowers are white or cream-colored and appear in large clusters in spring and summer. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open to release winged seeds.
The wood of Flindersia Australis is light to reddish-brown in color, with a distinctive grain pattern that resembles curly maple. It is highly valued for its strength and durability, and is often used in high-quality furniture making and construction.
Care Guide
Flindersia Australis is a low-maintenance tree that requires little care once established. Here are some tips for ensuring its health and longevity:
- Water: Flindersia Australis prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in early autumn.
- Soil: Flindersia Australis prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Flindersia Australis prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Flindersia Australis is hardy in zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Flindersia Australis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. Treat by improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Flindersia Australis is native to eastern Australia and can be found in rainforests, dry sclerophyll forests, and woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Flindersia Australis a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Flindersia Australis is a slow-growing tree that can take up to 20 years to reach maturity.
Q: Can Flindersia Australis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Flindersia Australis can be grown in large containers, but it will require regular pruning to keep it from outgrowing its container.
Q: Is Flindersia Australis drought-tolerant?
A: While Flindersia Australis can tolerate some drought, it prefers moist soil and will require regular watering during dry spells.
Q: Can Flindersia Australis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Flindersia Australis can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in winter.
Related Plants
- Flindersia Bennettiana
- Flindersia Bourjotiana
- Flindersia Brayleyana
- Flindersia Collina
References
- “Flindersia Australis.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/f-austr.html
- “Flindersia Australis.” PlantNET – New South Wales Flora Online. http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Flindersia~australis
- “Flindersia Australis.” The Wood Database. https://www.wood-database.com/queensland-maple/
