Lophostemon confertus aka Brisbane Box

Lophostemon confertus is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Common names include Brisbane box, brush box and Queensland box. It comes from eastern Australia, in Queensland and New South Wales. It grows along rainforest edges and in eucalypt forests. Its native range spans tropical and subtropical climates. Some trees rise above the surrounding forest canopy.

This fast-growing tree forms a dense crown. Garden references give heights of about 82–98 feet [25–30 metres]. One gives a spread of 66 feet [20 metres]. Wild trees in tropical areas can reach 131 feet [40 metres]. Exceptional trees reach 177 feet [54 metres]. Trees stay much smaller in harsh parts of its range. Large trees have a straight, round trunk. The largest trunks can reach about 10 feet [3 metres] across. The foliage stays on the tree year-round. Bees pollinate the flowers, and the tree forms seed capsules.

Grow it in full sun or partial shade. It needs fertile soil that drains well. It accepts soils ranging from sand to clay, including heavy clay. Acid soil suits it best, though it also tolerates neutral soil. It prefers moist ground but can withstand drought. PFAF lists it for USDA zones 9–12. Frost can harm it, above all when growth is young. Dormant trees may survive brief cold near 23°F [-5°C]. New growth can suffer severe harm at 30°F [-1°C]. These limits make frost exposure an important concern when choosing a site.

People plant Brisbane box for shade and as a street tree. Its size also suits parks and other large open spaces. Gardeners grow it as a specimen tree in subtropical gardens. Its fast growth supports its use in woodland restoration. The bark supplies tannins, and the timber has commercial value. Builders use the strong, lasting wood for bridges and floors. Other uses include ships and general building work. The wood resists termite attack, but drying it can cause problems. Boards may split, twist or warp as they dry.

The tree has escaped cultivation and become invasive in Hawaii. This is a concern beyond its value as an ornamental. Its very small seeds germinate readily. PFAF suggests mixing them with fine sand before sowing. PFAF reports no known food or medicinal uses. Both PFAF and Useful Tropical Plants list no known hazards. That does not establish that every plant part is safe to eat.