THE UGLY SAPLING

This young Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) has made an unassuming start on the farm

These two Sheoaks have been growing on the farm for 2 years. They have started to develop a dense canopy climates.

A mature Sheoak growing near the beach in Melbourne. The tree has assumed a stately form

Close up of the cones produced by the female Sheoak

A group of Sheoaks make an impressive sight near the beach

Just like in the fairytale, the ugly duckling of the plant world in Australia would have to be the Drooping Sheoak. This native tree certainly comes from humble beginnings.

Humble Start In Life

Staring life as an insignificant thin twig, the Drooping Sheoak has good reasons to be downcast. Overlooked by glossy, perfumed and colourful plants in the nursery, young Sheoaks never have much luck when young.

True Survivor With Deep Roots

A true survivor, it quietly makes it’s way in the world. While other plants shine, this plant puts its roots down deep, even in inhospitable places where sandy soils devoid of nutrients are accompanied by strong salt-laden winds.

Making Mark On The Landscape

The years pass and suddenly these ugly saplings begin to be noticed. First by birds and native wildlife and finally by people. Whispering and murmuring in the breeze, people are attracted to the soft, luminous light passing through the canopy. Strangely the nearby vegetation has retreated and in time a majestic and magnificent tree makes its mark on the landscape.

The Tree Protects And Provides

Attractive seed cones provide food for cockatoos, needles become nesting materials for birds and small marsupials while fungi growing in association with its roots provide food for small animals foraging under the canopy. The tree protects all from the blazing sun and destructive winds, supported by a tough corky trunk able to resist sand blasting. In spring large quantities of pollen are produced by male plants, supplying food for insects and small mammals.

This once ugly sapling has now earned its place in the forest, parks and farms, respected and admired by all, it has become the undisputed Queen of the Coastline.