Eucryphia moorei

Eucryphia moorei is a small handsome tree or tall shrub which occurs naturally in cool temperate rainforest areas on the moist slopes of the coastal ranges in southern New South Wales and Victoria. It is generally found growing in sheltered areas in acid soils rich in organic matter.

The horticultural merit of E. moorei has not been widely recognised. Its slender, upright growth habit makes it ideally suitable for small domestic gardens in the sheltered environment of a courtyard or a small secluded corner. Prefers a moist well-drained soil pretty free of lime. Requires plenty of light if it is to flower freely, tolerating almost full sun if the soil is cool and moist. Prefers to grow with its roots in the shade and its canopy in the sun. Another report says that it is shade tolerant. Does not thrive in very cold, dry or exposed positions. This species is only hardy in sheltered maritime gardens, tolerating temperatures down to about -5 C.

The pale, pinkish-brown, close-grained timber was used by the early settlers for cabinet making and possibly axe and tool handles.

Similar plants:

• Eucryphia sp. (Eucryphia, Leatherwood)