Family: Myrtaceae
Common Name: Turpentine Tree

The five species of trees in this genus, from coastal forests of eastern Australia, are very handsome. They are grown for their timber used for heavy-duty constructions (such as wharves), being resistant to marine borers, white ants and fire. They are planted in the south of the US as shade trees but they are not suitable for the average garden as they are too large, and cannot be recommended for growing under glass in frost-prone climates.

Species

S. glomulifera, turpentine tree, grows up to 60 m (200 ft) in the wild, but less than 20 m (65 ft) in cultivation. The trunk is clothed in red-brown, deeply furrowed bark. It has dense, glossy, dark green foliage and sprays of white flowers, followed by woody fruits fused into a spiky, ball shape. This species smells of turpentine.

S. hillii, another tall species, with larger, glossy leaves, is grown mostly for its timber which is exceptionally durable.

Cultivation

Turpentines prefer a rich, moist, well-drained soil. They have low frost-tolerance. Propagation is from ripened seed, which germinates readily.

Climate

Zone 9.