Plant of the Month -Stenocarpus Doreen
If you’re looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance tree that attracts native bees and adds charm to your garden, Stenocarpus angustifolius ‘Doreen’ is a fantastic choice. This small evergreen tree, native to Queensland's rainforests, grows to a maximum height of around 5 metres, making it a perfect option for smaller gardens, urban spaces, or even as a hedge. Its fine, fern-like foliage starts off a vibrant lime green before deepening as the leaves mature, adding an elegant touch to your garden. Not only does it look stunning, but the foliage is also ideal for floral arrangements, giving you an extra reason to prune it now and then.
What makes this tree even more special is how much it attracts pollinators, especially native bees. During autumn, it produces small white, curly flowers that offer a rich source of nectar and pollen. Bees can often be seen buzzing around, and with the plant flowering for much of the year, it provides a reliable food source for them. If you’re a beekeeper or just want to support local wildlife, Stenocarpus angustifolius ‘Doreen’ is a perfect addition to your garden, ensuring your bees have plenty to forage on.
For best results, this tree thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate both sun and part shade. It’s happiest when mulched, which helps to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, and it benefits from being fertilised with a slow-release native fertiliser when first planted. Once established, it’s a hardy plant that will continue to bloom almost year-round, making it a standout feature in your garden. Despite its delicate appearance, Stenocarpus angustifolius ‘Doreen’ is surprisingly tough. It’s wind-hardy, resistant to pests and diseases, and can even tolerate light frosts, making it ideal for a variety of garden conditions.
This plant’s fast-growing nature makes it perfect for creating natural screens or windbreaks. Its dense, ferny foliage forms a lovely privacy hedge, and it can also serve as a beautiful specimen tree, adding texture and interest throughout the seasons. Though it’s not as large as its relative, the Stenocarpus sinuatus (Firewheel Tree), it’s a more compact option for smaller spaces, making it a great choice for urban gardens.
If you’re keen on planting one, just be sure to choose a well-drained spot with some sun or part shade. After planting, give it a bit of slow-release fertiliser, and you’ll soon be rewarded with vibrant blooms and lovely, fern-like leaves. .
