A magnificent large tree with sculptural, twisting limbs and smooth pink-to-orange bark that sheds to reveal salmon tones. Clusters of creamy summer flowers feed bees and birds.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 20 m H × 12 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Smooth-barked Apple
Botanically, Angophora costata is a moderate-growing tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to New South Wales and Queensland. It reaches around 20 m tall and 12 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White and cream green flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Smooth-barked Apple
Smooth-barked Apple suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Smooth-barked Apple does best in sandy, free-draining and poor soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Smooth-barked Apple performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Smooth-barked Apple after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Smooth-barked Apple in the garden
Smooth-barked Apple earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
Combine Smooth-barked Apple with plants that share its preference for low water use and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Smooth-barked Apple
Plant Sale lists Smooth-barked Apple as tube stock, potted plants, advanced specimens and seed. Current stock is confirmed with your quote; ask about your preferred size before planning a purchase.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Smooth-barked Apple seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
