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Lophostemon confertus

Brisbane Box

Plant photo of: Lophostemon confertus
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer: Normans/Steve Jacobs

 

Description

Brisbane Box (Tristania conferta) is a very fast-growing evergreen tree that is native to Australia. It is a common tree to use in parkways and residential gardens because it is low-water-use, low maintenance, and resistant to pests, disease, and smog conditions. This is a great selection to be used in a medium garden to screen neighboring houses or undesirable views, as the tree is fast-growing and has a dense, upright canopy, maturing at 50’ tall and up to 30’ wide. This tree can take most soil and water conditions, so it can be used in almost all styles of gardens. It is very drought-tolerant, but its larger, dark green leaves make it look lush. When it starts to reach its mature height, the tree can thin out, giving it a more arid look. If the desired effect in the garden is to have a full, dense canopy, it is best to leave the pruning and care to a licensed arborist. There is no need to fertilize this tree as it already has a fast-growth habit, and the supplemental nutrients will only encourage more growth. This tree should be planted at least three feet away from any hardscape areas, eight feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about two feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree

Height Range

40-60'

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

Brown, Green, Red

Fruit Color

Brown, Red

Fruit Season

Summer

Leaf Season

Evergreen

Sun

Full

Water

Very Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

Soil Condition

Average

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Adverse Factors

Messy

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish, Tropical

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Specimen, Standard

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Parking Strip, Patio, Park, Parking Lot, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Screen, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.