Bischofia javanicaBishopwood

Bischofia javanica, known as Bishopwood or Java Cedar, is a large, fast, densely crowned tree with trifoliate leaves whose new growth flushes bronze-red before hardening to glossy dark green. In warm climates it holds most of its foliage year round, thinning briefly in a cool or dry season.

Its value on a project is straightforward: it makes deep shade quickly over a wide area, which suits parks, car parks and the broad verges of a masterplanned development.

Specifications

• Height15 to 25 metres
• Width10 to 15 metres
• Native toTropical Asia, from India through southern China and Southeast Asia to the Pacific islands
• FoliageTrifoliate leaves with serrated leaflets, glossy dark green, flushing bronze-red on new growth; semi-deciduous in cool or dry seasons
• Growth rateFast

Conditions

• SoilPrefers deep, moist, well-drained soils; tolerates a wide range of soil types
• LightFull sun to partial shade
• WaterModerate; performs best with reliable moisture
• ClimateThrives in tropical and subtropical regions

Additional Features

• FormDense, broad, rounded crown on a straight trunk
• FruitSmall brown berries produced freely on female trees
• UsesIdeal for shade and avenue planting, parks, car parks and large-scale amenity landscapes
• SpacingPlant 8 to 12 metres apart for avenues or open canopy cover
• Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning once established; site clear of drains and paving as the root system is vigorous
• Pest ResistanceGenerally resilient
• Wildlife AttractionFruit is heavily taken by birds and fruit bats
• Seasonal AppealBronze-red new growth against the dark mature canopy

Bishopwood is a fast, heavy shade tree for humid climates where broad canopy cover is wanted within a few seasons.