Flindersia collinaLeopard Ash

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 to 25 metres 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

• Height15 to 25 metres
• Width8 to 12 metres
• Native toAustralia (Queensland)
• FoliageGlossy, dark green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
• LightFull sun to partial shade
• WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in subtropical and tropical regions

Additional Features

• BarkMottled, leopard-like appearance adds year-round interest
• FlowersSmall, fragrant creamy-white blooms in spring and summer
• FruitWoody seed capsules; ornamental but not messy
• FormUpright with a rounded, dense canopy
• UsesIdeal for shade, street planting, parks, or as a feature tree in large gardens
• SpacingPlant 8 to 10 metres apart for individual displays or rows
• Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning required; shape as needed when young
• Pest ResistanceNaturally hardy and pest-free
• Drought TolerancePerforms well in low-water gardens once established
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract bees and birds; canopy provides habitat for wildlife
• TimberDurable wood used in fine furniture and joinery
• Erosion ControlEffective for stabilising soils on slopes or degraded land
• VersatilityComplements 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.