About Stenocarpus salignus R.Br.
Stenocarpus salignus R.Br., commonly known as scrub beefwood, grows as a shrub or small tree. Occasional mature specimens reach up to 30 metres (98 feet) in height, with a trunk diameter of 60 cm (24 inches). The trunk is often irregular and buttressed, covered in dark brown scaly bark. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and entire, with shapes ranging from ovate to lanceolate or elliptic. Leaves have wavy edges, one to three main longitudinal veins, a distinct hard point at the tip, and gradually taper toward the base. They measure 8 to 15 cm (3.1 to 5.9 in) long and 3 to 5 cm (1.2 to 2.0 in) wide, glossy dark green on the upper surface and paler underneath. Leaf form varies considerably across individuals of this species. White fragrant flowers grow in umbels from October to January, and resemble the flowers of the related genus Grevillea. After flowering, the plant produces narrow follicle seed pods that are 5 to 10 cm (2.0 to 3.9 in) long. Pods start green and mature to a brown colour, with fruit ripening between March and June. Each pod holds many thin, papery, oblong-shaped seeds around 12 mm long. Fresh seeds germinate quickly, and cuttings also root successfully. In cultivation, this species is sometimes available from specialist native plant nurseries in Eastern Australia. It grows well in partial shade on well drained, mildly acidic soils. It is grown less commonly than its better known relative, Stenocarpus sinuatus.
