A handsome rainforest tree with glossy lobed leaves and extraordinary spoke-like wheels of scarlet-and-gold flowers in autumn. A spectacular bird-attracting feature tree.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 10 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Firewheel Tree
Botanically, Stenocarpus sinuatus is a slow-growing tree in the Proteaceae family, native to New South Wales and Queensland. It reaches around 10 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red and orange flowers appear in autumn.
Where to grow Firewheel Tree
Firewheel Tree suits subtropical, tropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Firewheel Tree does best in free-draining and acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Firewheel Tree does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser — the Proteaceae are especially phosphorus-sensitive. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Firewheel Tree after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Firewheel Tree in the garden
Firewheel Tree earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a shade tree and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Firewheel Tree with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Firewheel Tree
Plant Sale lists Firewheel Tree as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
