Rough barked apple (Angophora floribunda, Hort. Brit., ed. 2: 209 (1830))

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: Sweet

Bibliography: Hort. Brit., ed. 2: 209 (1830)

Year: 1830

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Angophora

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. & SE. Australia

Description

The Rough barked apple, scientifically known as Angophora floribunda, is a notable species in the Myrtaceae family. It was first described in the second edition of Hortus Britannicus on page 209 in 1830 by the renowned botanist Robert Sweet.

Native to the eastern and southeastern regions of Australia, Angophora floribunda is well recognized for its distinctive, rough-textured bark, which easily sets it apart from other trees in its habitat. The bark is often flaky and can exhibit a striking pattern of deep fissures, giving rise to the common name Rough barked apple. This characteristic bark plays a significant role in providing habitat and protection for various forms of wildlife, including insects and small nesting birds.

In addition to its unique bark, the Rough barked apple produces an array of creamy white flowers that bloom predominantly during the warmer months. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also serve as an important nectar source for a host of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. The foliage of Angophora floribunda consists of lance-shaped leaves, which offer a lush, green contrast to the rugged texture of its bark.

Angophora floribunda is an adaptable species, thriving in a range of soil types and conditions found in its native range. This resilience makes it a favorable choice for cultivation in gardens and parks, particularly in Australia, where it can be a significant part of landscaping projects implemented to promote native flora.

The Rough barked apple’s timber, although not extensively harvested, has applications in situations where good structural wood is required. However, its primary value lies in its ecological contributions and ornamental appeal in enhancing the biodiversity and aesthetic value of natural and urban environments.

In summary, Angophora floribunda, the Rough barked apple, is a distinctive and ecologically valuable tree indigenous to E. and SE. Australia. Its striking bark, prolific flowering, and adaptability make it a significant component of the Australian landscape, supporting local wildlife and contributing to the natural beauty of the regions it inhabits.

Common Names

En: Rough barked apple
Fa: سیب سخت‌پوست

Synonyms

• Metrosideros floribunda (Sm.)
• Eucalyptus florida (Brooker)
• Acmena floribunda ((Sm.) A.Cunn. ex DC.)
• Angophora ochrophylla (R.T.Baker)
• Angophora intermedia (A.Cunn. ex DC.)

Distribution

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

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Sep 1, 2019 by that’s someguy (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3177412)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:590643-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Angophora floribunda (Sm.) Sweet)

Specifications

Growth