Commonly called the Buloak, Bull-oak or Buloke, Allocasuarina luehmannii grows in a range between western Victoria and south east south Australia, through NSW to southern Queensland.
In its southern regions it is the major food source of the he red-tailed black cockatoo, and this fussy eater also thrives on Eucalyptus baxteri and E. arenacea.
Loss of habitat especially Allocasuarina luehmannii is causing major decline in population of these birds.
This is a tree with extremely hard wood and it has been used for flooring, furniture and wood turning.
Care
This is a hardy tree once established and should be used as a shelter belt or windbreak in its natural range.
In a well drained soil as with most Allocasuarina species it will thrive with little attention once established. It will tolerate mild salt levels however it is best planted in low frost zones.
Propagation
Seed from the fresh fruits are collected and allowed to dry. The seeds will be released from the fruits and should be cleaned and kept in a cool dry place.
Seeds have an average germination rate and are fairly easy.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Allocasuarina luehmannii
- Common Name – Buloak, Bull-oak, Buloke
- Position – Full sun
- Soil – Well drained
- Height – 10 metres to 15 metres.
- Flowers – Small red followed by fruits on the female trees.
- Flowering Time – Spring to summer
- Growth Rate – Dependant on soil and climate, from slow to fast.