This large tree is semi deciduous with a shaft-like greyish trunk that is slightly buttress base and spreading horizontal branches that form an open crown. It has glossy green oval leaves and the bell-shaped white flowers appear in clusters during summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Gmelina leichhardtiiis naturally found on the east coast of Australia from northern New South Wales to south-eastern Queensland. It is found in subtropical rainforests growing along creek beds or on mountain sides occurring in alluvial to basalt based soils. It also grows in old dunes on Fraser Island appearing solitary or in small groups of three.

It prefers an open sunny position and grows in deep well drained organic rich sandy to light clay loam and is drought and frost tender.

White Beech is a forest tree that is grown in parks and large gardens as a specimen for shade when young. The timber is sought after for furniture and is used on decks of boats as it is easy to work with and has little shrinkage. It has a moderate growth rate establishing in 3 to 5 years and is long lived. ID 1036

Gmelina(g`MEL-in-ah)leichhardtii(ly-KAHT-ee-eye)

Lamiaceae(lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
(Labiatae)
Mint Family