Kanuka (Tristaniopsis laurina, Austral. J. Bot. 30: 435 (1982))

Family: Myrtaceae

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

Bibliography: Austral. J. Bot. 30: 435 (1982)

Year: 1982

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Tristaniopsis

Vegetable: False

Observations: Queensland to Victoria

Description

Kanuka, scientifically known as Tristaniopsis laurina, is a notable member of the Myrtaceae family. This distinguished plant captures attention with its robust adaptation and widespread distribution, ranging from Queensland to Victoria. The plant’s provenance and characteristics were comprehensively detailed in the Australian Journal of Botany in 1982 by botanists Peter G. Wilson and J.T. Waterhouse.

The Kanuka exhibits a stunning presence in natural landscapes, often flourishing along riverbanks and in moist forested areas, where it contributes significantly to the local ecosystem. With its glossy, laurel-like leaves, it bears a visual resemblance to the more widely recognized tea trees. This evergreen plant can grow impressively tall, making it an important component of the canopy layer in its native habitats.

Botanically, Tristaniopsis laurina is celebrated for its resilience and adaptability. It thrives in various soil types, albeit preferring well-drained conditions, and hosts brilliant clusters of yellow flowers that enhance its ornamental appeal during blooming seasons. These blossoms, combined with its robust foliage, make the Kanuka a favored choice for both ecological restoration projects and decorative planting in gardens and public spaces.

In addition to its visual and ecological contributions, the Kanuka offers intriguing avenues for research and exploration within the botanical sciences. Its well-documented placement in the Myrtaceae family ties it to a rich heritage of species known for their essential oils, hardwood properties, and utility in traditional herbal practices. The study of such plants provides valuable insights into plant resilience and evolutionary adaptability across different environments.

Overall, the Tristaniopsis laurina, or Kanuka, stands as a testament to the natural beauty and biological significance of the flora found from Queensland to Victoria, continuing to captivate botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: kanuka, water-gum
En: Kanuka, Water-gum

Synonyms

• Melaleuca laurina (Sm.)
• Tristania laurina ((Sm.) R.Br.)
• Tristania bakeriana (Gand.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Oct 28, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 1, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2022 by Julia LYNCH (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 3, 2022 by jai tweeddale (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jan 11, 2022 by Lexi Logan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 28, 2022 by Matt White (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 11, 2021 by Phillip Oertel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 19, 2022 by Diego Subias Ana (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Nov 9, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 7, 2021 by Danilo Diedrichs (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 1, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 28, 2022 by Danielle Stig (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Aug 15, 2022 by Kiera O’Halloran (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3188062)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:911572-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Tristaniopsis laurina (Sm.) Peter G.Wilson & J.T.Waterh.)

Specifications

Growth