Lysicarpus angustifolius

Budgeroo, Buff Hazelwood,  Tom Russell’s Mahogany

Myrtaceae

Distribution: Eastern inland Qld., to a little north of Townsville; in Eucalypt woodlands and grasslands. The presence of this tree often indicates phosphorus deficient, infertile, sandy soils.

Form and Size: A medium tree to 10m with a rounded, open canopy.

Leaves: Narrow, stiff, leathery, hairy underneath, margins recurved, 2-9cm long; borne opposite or in whorls of 3.

Bark: Dark brownish-grey, loose and fibrous.

Flowers: Creamy-white, centres aging to russet brown, approx 1cm diameter; borne in small, open panicles.

Flowering Period: August to November.

Fruit: Small capsules, 6-8mm long.

Cultivation/Notes: The timber of this tree is hard, heavy, elastic and prettily marked. It is termite resistant and popular for woodturning and cabinet work. Because of its characteristics it was widely used in the past for fencing, piles and railway sleepers