Tasmanian Leatherwood
A plant thats name is probably better known for a by product than the plant itself , Eucryphia lucida is commonly known as Tasmanian leatherwood. AlthoughEucryphia species are found both in Australia and South America it is the Australian species that are widely used in landscaping.
Best known of all is the Tasmanian Leatherwood, these are the trees that give their name to the honey.
Eucryphia moorei and wilkei are all commonly called ‘Leatherwood’. They are a a very attractive spring to summer flowering, upright, medium sized tree.
Not all species are from Australia, some are also found in Chile. The large open white flowers are very attractive and in a cool to temperate climate they make a useful landscaping tree. Interestingly they are increasingly popular in the UK and Europe.
A medium sized rainforest tree, generally as an understory tree in open forest areas, so cooler conditions suit. Eucryphia x nymansensis ‘Nymansay’ produces masses of white, showy flowers that have a sweet scent. ‘Eucryphia lucida pink cloud’ is a summer flowering small tree with lovely pink flowers highly perfumed.
Named Eucryphia Varieties
- ‘Pink Cloud’ – Characterised by pink flowers.
- ‘Gillanders’ Rose’ – Pink flowers, found and named after Ken Gillanders
- ‘Ballerina’ – Paler pink flowers the above.
- ‘Leatherwood Cream’ – Variegated foliage
Eucryphia Care
- Humus rich moist soil.
- Cool to temperate climate.
- Best in part shade although will grow in full sun. Shelter from strong winds is recommended.
- Excellent for attracting bees into the garden
- These are a plant that can be pruned to size and can be grown in a container as a small to medium shrub.
Propagation
Eucryphia lucida and other species can be propagated from seed, or from semi ripe cuttings.
Where To Buy
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au