Categories: Myrtaceae

Brisbane box (Lophostemon confertus, Austral. J. Bot. 30: 424 (1982))

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: (R.Br.) Peter G.Wilson & J.T.Waterh.

Bibliography: Austral. J. Bot. 30: 424 (1982)

Year: 1982

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lophostemon

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Australia

Description

The Brisbane box, scientifically known as Lophostemon confertus, is a striking evergreen tree native to Eastern Australia. It is a prominent member of the Myrtaceae family and has garnered attention for its resilience and ornamental appeal.

Lophostemon confertus is appreciated for its robust and versatile nature. The tree reaches heights of 25 to 35 meters, making it an excellent choice for public spaces, streets, and parks. Its dense, rounded canopy offers substantial shade, creating a welcoming environment in urban settings. The foliage is another distinguishing feature; the leaves are glossy, dark green, and lanceolate, contributing to the tree’s lush appearance throughout the year.

One of the most notable characteristics of the Brisbane box is its bark. The trunk is covered with a light brown, shedding bark that peels away to reveal a smooth, cream-colored surface underneath. This exfoliation process is both a defense mechanism against pests and a unique aesthetic trait that adds to the tree’s visual appeal.

Beyond its beauty, the Brisbane box is valued for its toughness. It is highly adaptable to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils, and can thrive in full sun to partial shade. It is also remarkably drought-resistant once established, which makes it a practical choice for areas with variable rainfall. Furthermore, the tree exhibits a significant tolerance to urban pollution and has a high resistance to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for city planners and gardeners alike.

The Brisbane box blooms in the summer, displaying clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. These blooms eventually give way to woody seed capsules containing numerous tiny seeds, contributing to the plant’s propagation and spread.

Originally detailed in the Austral. J. Bot. in 1982, the taxonomic clarification of this species was provided by Peter G. Wilson and J.T. Waterhouse, based on earlier descriptions by Robert Brown. Observations have consistently highlighted its native distribution across Eastern Australia, where it naturally integrates into various ecosystems.

In conclusion, Lophostemon confertus, or Brisbane box, offers a blend of aesthetic beauty, ecological benefits, and practical advantages. Its ability to endure and thrive in challenging environments makes it an invaluable addition to both natural and urban landscapes.

Common Names

Eng: brisbane box, brisbane boxtree, brisbane-box, queensland-box, brushbox, red-box, vinegar-tree, vinegartree
En: Brisbane box, Brisbane boxtree, Brisbane-box, Queensland-box, Brushbox, Red-box, Vinegar-tree, Vinegartree

Synonyms

Tristania subverticillata (H.Wendl.)
Tristania conferta var. microcarpa (Domin)
Tristania conferta var. typica (Domin)
Tristania conferta (Griff.)
Tristania griffithii (Kurz)
Tristania conferta var. fibrosa (F.M.Bailey)
Tristania macrophylla (A.Cunn.)
Lophostemon arborescens (Schott)

Distribution

New South Wales (native)
Queensland (native)
China South-Central (introduced)
China Southeast (introduced)
Hawaii (introduced)
Kenya (introduced)
Taiwan (introduced)
Tanzania (introduced)
Uganda (introduced)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Bernardino Vitor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 21, 2021 by Noah Miller (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 23, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2022 by Harry Carter (cc-by-sa)