Flindersia pimenteliana
Maple Silkwood, Rose Silkwood
The Flindersia pimenteliana, commonly known as Maple Silkwood or Rose Silkwood, is a medium to large Australian native tree valued for its attractive foliage, ornamental flowers, and high-quality timber. Growing up to 20 to 30 metres tall in its natural habitat, it features lush, pinnate leaves that resemble maple leaves and clusters of small, creamy white, fragrant flowers in spring and summer. Its dense canopy and elegant form make it ideal for shade, feature planting, or reforestation projects.
Resilient and adaptable, Maple Silkwood thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, providing ecological and aesthetic benefits.
Specifications
- Height20 to 30 metres
- Width8 to 12 metres
- Native toAustralia (Queensland rainforests)
- FoliagePinnate, dark green, glossy leaves; evergreen
- Growth rateModerate
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained, fertile soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in tropical and subtropical regions
Additional Features
- FlowersSmall, fragrant, creamy white blooms in spring and summer
- FormUpright growth with a dense, rounded canopy
- UsesPerfect for shade, feature planting, timber production, or reforestation projects
- SpacingPlant 8 to 12 metres apart for mature canopies
- Low MaintenanceRequires minimal pruning; remove dead wood as needed
- Pest ResistanceHardy and generally pest-free
- Drought TolerancePerforms well once established, though prefers consistent moisture when young
- Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract bees and other pollinators; canopy provides habitat for wildlife
- TimberDurable and finely grained, suitable for cabinetry, flooring, and furniture
- Erosion ControlEffective for stabilising slopes and rehabilitating degraded land
- VersatilityComplements native and formal garden styles, as well as large-scale landscapes
Maple Silkwood is a versatile and elegant tree, perfect for adding shade, ecological value, and a touch of rainforest beauty to gardens and larger landscapes.