Corymbia tessellarisMoreton Bay ash

The Corymbia tessellaris, commonly known as Moreton Bay Ash, is a fast-growing, medium to tall native tree characterised by its tessellated bark, slender trunk, and dense canopy of narrow, lance-shaped leaves. It is valued for its resilience in challenging environments and ability to provide shade and habitat in urban, rural, and coastal landscapes. Reaching heights of up to 20 to 30 metres, this hardy species is suitable for large gardens, streetscapes, and windbreaks.

Specifications

• Height20 to 30 metres
• Width8 to 12 metres
• Native toEastern Australia
• FoliageNarrow, lance-shaped green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateFast

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained, sandy to clay soils; tolerates poor and saline soils
• LightFull sun
• WaterLow; highly drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in subtropical, tropical, and coastal regions

Additional Features

• BarkTessellated, rough bark at the base transitioning to smooth white or pale grey bark higher up
• FlowersClusters of small, creamy-white flowers; late winter to spring
• UsesIdeal for shade, windbreaks, revegetation, and as a feature tree
• SpacingPlant 8 to 12 metres apart for canopy development or windbreaks
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract birds, bees, and other pollinators; canopy provides habitat for wildlife
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free and highly resilient
• Drought ToleranceExcellent; performs well in dry conditions
• Salt ToleranceSuitable for coastal areas and saline soils
• Erosion ControlEffective for stabilising slopes and degraded areas
• Low MaintenanceRequires little pruning; hardy in a variety of conditions
• VersatilityComplements native, bushland, and coastal garden designs

The Moreton Bay Ash is a robust and versatile Australian native tree, perfect for providing shade, habitat, and a striking vertical element in landscapes while thriving in challenging conditions.