Flindersia australis
Crow's Ash, Australian Teak
The Flindersia australis, commonly known as Crow's Ash or Australian Teak, is a robust and long-lived native Australian tree. This deciduous to semi-evergreen species grows up to 40 metres tall in its natural habitat but typically reaches 15 to 20 metres in cultivation, with a broad, spreading canopy that provides excellent shade. Renowned for its dense, durable timber and ornamental value, it features glossy, dark green foliage and clusters of small, fragrant white flowers in spring.
Hardy and low-maintenance, Crow's Ash is ideal for large gardens, parks, and streetscapes, offering shade, habitat, and visual appeal.
Specifications
- Height15 to 20 metres (up to 40 metres in the wild)
- Width10 to 15 metres
- Native toAustralia (Queensland and New South Wales)
- FoliageGlossy, dark green leaves; deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Growth rateSlow to moderate
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
- LightFull sun
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions
Additional Features
- FlowersSmall, fragrant white blooms in spring
- FormUpright with a broad, spreading canopy
- UsesIdeal for shade, parks, large gardens, or as a street tree
- SpacingPlant 8 to 10 metres apart for mature canopies
- Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning required; remove dead wood as needed
- Pest ResistanceGenerally hardy and pest-free
- Drought TolerancePerforms well in low-water gardens once established
- TimberHighly durable, used for flooring, furniture, and construction
- Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract bees and birds; canopy provides habitat for wildlife
- Erosion ControlEffective for stabilising soils on slopes and degraded land
- VersatilityComplements formal, native, and large-scale garden styles
Crow's Ash is a magnificent and functional tree, offering shade, ecological benefits, and enduring beauty for expansive landscapes and public spaces.