This fast growing, attractive tree is native to rainforest areas of the Atherton Tableland in northern Queensland. It is a large tree (up to 30m), closely related to the Eucalyptus genus in the Myrtaceae family and has been a popular landscaping tree in our area in recent times. Local bush regenerators and Landcare volunteers at Nabiac are now actively controlling this species as invades bushland reserves in the area. The trunk has a basal stocking of rough tessellated bark, with smooth greyish-green bark on the upper trunk sections and branches. Leaves are large, ovate, with rough bristles that may be red on new growth in juveniles (distinguishing feature). Large clusters of white flowers are followed by large, urn-shaped capsules with 3 compartments, producing copious volumes of sticky, resin-coated seed. These seeds are actively spread by native bees when they forage the flowers for nectar and pollen. When growing outside of its natural range, the tree forms a dense canopy that shades local understorey species and alters natural succession and regeneration of our forest communities with the potential to modify diversity and structure of these forests. Also of concern is its potential to hybridise with local species of Corymbia, which may result in the weakening of genetic integrity of local species.
Control Methods:
Hand removal of seedlings.
Cut and paint saplings.
Drill and fill mature trees, leave until dead (3-6 months) – be aware that this method may lead to limb drop and be a public health risk. Once dead, Cadaghi may be harvested for firewood by suitably qualified chainsaw operator.
Recommended management:
Do not use this species in landscaping or farm plantings. Local native species are the best option for farm shelter belts, paddock trees and corridor plantings. Consult with your local Landcare Officer, Council or Local Land Services for more information about appropriate species for revegetation on your property.
For ornamental purposes, Plant me Instead:
Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus) – tall tree with large glossy leaves and pretty cream flowers.
Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus) – Attractive pale pink flowers and blue berries. Dark leaves.
BLue Lilly Pilly (Syzygium oleosum) – 6-8m tall with dense dark leaves and fluffy cream coloured flowers in spring. Good hedging plant.
Lolly Bush (Clerodendrum floribundum) – 4-6m tall with large dark leaves and attractive white flowers.
Magenta Lilly Pilly (Syzygium paniculatum) – 6-8m tall with dense dark leaves and fluffy cream coloured flowers in spring. Good hedging plant.
Rough-barked Apple (Angophora subvelutina) – 10-15m rough barked tree with handsome form. Creamy white flowers in summer.
Snow-in-Summer (Melaleuca linariifolia) – 4-5m tall, paperbark with narrow leaves and fluffy cream flowers in summer. Will tolerate wet feet.
Satinwood (Nematolepis squamea) – 4-6
