Stenocarpus sinuatus
firewheel tree
eastern Australia (Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales)
Overview
Stenocarpus sinuatus is an evergreen tree in the family Proteaceae. In rainforest it can reach 100 feet (30 m), but in cultivation it usually grows 15–30 feet (4.5–9 m) tall and 10–15 feet (3–4.5 m) wide over many years, as it grows slowly. The leaves are glossy dark green, leathery, and variable in shape on the same tree, ranging from entire and lance-shaped to deeply lobed (sinuate), 4–10 inches (10–25 cm) long. Flowers are red with cream to yellow tips and are grouped into wheel-shaped clusters 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) across, each cluster made up of curved tubular flowers radiating from a central point. Flowering occurs mainly in late summer and autumn, and trees may not flower until several years old. Woody boat-shaped follicles 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long follow the flowers and split to release winged seeds. The tree is native to subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest in eastern Australia. Young plants are damaged by frost and need a sheltered position, while mature trees tolerate light frost. Growth is slow, so the tree takes years to reach flowering size.
Native Range
Stenocarpus sinuatus is native to eastern Australia, from coastal Queensland to north-eastern New South Wales. It grows in subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest, often on volcanic and alluvial soils.Suggested Uses
Planted as a specimen and shade tree in subtropical and warm-temperate gardens, parks, and streetscapes. Used in rainforest-style and native plantings where space allows for a slow-growing tree. Grown in large containers while young in cooler climates and moved under cover in winter.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height15' - 30'
Width/Spread10' - 15'
Reaches mature size in approximately 20 years
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
red with cream to yellow tipsFoliage Description
glossy dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow Stenocarpus sinuatus in full sun to part shade in deep, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. As a member of Proteaceae it grows better in soils low in phosphorus, so high-phosphorus fertilisers are left off. Water young trees regularly through dry periods, while established trees tolerate short dry spells. The species is frost-tender when young and benefits from a sheltered position in cooler areas. Growth is slow, particularly in the first few years. Soil pH from 5.5 to 6.5 suits it.Pruning
Prune Stenocarpus sinuatus lightly after flowering to shape the canopy and take out damaged wood. It needs little structural pruning and forms an upright, pyramidal crown when young. Remove competing leaders early if a single trunk is wanted.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
fall
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 15 gallons