Soap Tree Alphitonia excelsa
APPEARANCE : Alphitonia excelsa, commonly known as Soap tree or Red Ash, is a medium to large evergreen tree native to eastern Australia. Apart from its value as an ornamental tree, Alphitonia excelsa serves as a fodder plant for both sheep and cattle, and is not as astringent as some edible species. Its wood is useful for tool handles, cabinet work and building purposes, and when first cut is a light colour, gradually darkening at the heart. Red Ash thrives in various habitats, from coastal forests to dry woodlands, across eastern Australia.
Plant Information
HEIGHT : Tree 10-25 meters in height with rough, dark bark that flakes irregularly.
Native to: Australia
Growth rate: Moderate to Fast
Leaves: Glossy, lanceolate leaves with silvery undersidesFlowers: Small, creamy white flowers in clusters from late winter to early spring
Seed: Small, dark blue or black drupe about 1 cm in diameter.
Light: Full sun to part shade
Water: Low to moderate water requirements, drought-tolerant once established It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate different soil types.