Flindersia collina
The Flindersia collina, or Leopard Ash, is a graceful Australian native tree known for its mottled, leopard-like bark and glossy, dark green foliage. This medium-sized evergreen tree grows up to 15–25 meters tall, with a rounded canopy that provides excellent shade. In spring and summer, it produces small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers, followed by woody seed capsules. Leopard Ash is well-suited to parks, streetscapes, and large gardens, offering a striking visual element and practical benefits.
Hardy and adaptable, Leopard Ash is a versatile choice for a variety of landscapes.
Specifications:
- Height: 15–25 meters
- Width: 8–12 meters
- Native to: Australia (Queensland)
- Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves; evergreen
- Growth rate: Moderate
Conditions:
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Climate: Thrives in subtropical and tropical regions
Additional Features:
- Bark: Mottled, leopard-like appearance adds year-round interest
- Flowers: Small, fragrant creamy-white blooms in spring and summer
- Fruit: Woody seed capsules; ornamental but not messy
- Form: Upright with a rounded, dense canopy
- Uses: Ideal for shade, street planting, parks, or as a feature tree in large gardens
- Spacing: Plant 8–10 meters apart for individual displays or rows
- Low Maintenance: Minimal pruning required; shape as needed when young
- Pest Resistance: Naturally hardy and pest-free
- Drought Tolerance: Performs well in low-water gardens once established
- Wildlife Attraction: Flowers attract bees and birds; canopy provides habitat for wildlife
- Timber: Durable wood used in fine furniture and joinery
- Erosion Control: Effective for stabilizing soils on slopes or degraded land
- Versatility: Complements native, formal, and large-scale landscapes
Leopard Ash is a beautiful and practical tree, perfect for adding shade, habitat, and an eye-catching bark pattern to parks, gardens, and streetscapes.
The Benefits Of Buying An Advanced Tree
The Process Of Transplanting A Mature Tree
Identify the Tree's Root Zone
Identify the Tree's Root Zone
Before you begin, it's essential to identify the root zone or root ball of the tree. This is the area where the majority of the tree's feeder roots are located. It is typically estimated as 1 foot of root ball diameter for each inch of tree trunk diameter.
Prune the Roots
Prune the Roots
Root pruning should occur a few months before the actual move, ideally in the dormant season. This involves cutting a trench around the root zone to encourage the growth of new feeder roots, which will help the tree to establish itself in its new location.
Prepare the Tree
Prepare the Tree
Prior to digging, prune dead or excessive branches from the tree. This reduces the tree's overall mass, making it easier to handle, and decreases water loss post-transplant.
Dig Around the Root Ball
Dig Around the Root Ball
After determining the root ball's size, begin digging around it. Try to retain as much soil around the roots as possible. The depth should ideally get under the root system but be feasible for lifting.
Undercut the Root Ball
Undercut the Root Ball
Once you've dug around the periphery of the root ball, begin undercutting to sever the remaining roots beneath it.
Lift the Tree
Lift the Tree
With the root ball freed, carefully lift the tree out of the hole. For large trees, this will likely require machinery like a tree spade or crane. Always lift the tree by the root ball, not the trunk.
Prepare the Tree for Transport
Prepare the Tree for Transport
Once the tree is out of the ground, it's critical to protect the root ball to prevent damage. Wrap it in burlap and secure it with twine, wire or steel basket. This not only holds the root ball together but also helps retain moisture.
Water the Root Ball
Water the Root Ball
Prior to transportation, water the root ball thoroughly to ensure the roots stay moist.
Transporting the Tree
Transporting the Tree
Load the tree carefully onto a truck or trailer for transport. The tree should be securely positioned to avoid damage during transit. The tree should ideally be planted in its new location as soon as possible to minimize stress and increase its chance of survival.