Toona ciliata – Red Cedar

Toona ciliata - Red Cedar
Toona ciliata - Red Cedar

A large rainforest tree which was once common on the NSW north coast and southern Queensland coast, but was extensively logged for the prized timber which is good for cabinet making, as it is soft and easily worked with a beautiful red colour. Should only be planted in large parks and farms as it can grow from 40 to 60 metres tall, but is a beautiful tree, and one of the few deciduous Australian trees…the new spring leaf growth is red coloured and very attractive. In sheltered forested areas it will grow a straight trunk, but in a more open spot it grows shorter and more spreading, creating a good summer shade tree. Cedar tip moth can affect the new growth, and this too will lead to a smaller tree, often with several trunks if attacked early in its life. The bark is scaly and flowers are insignificant. The seeds are light and have papery wings which help them to fly on the breeze once the seed capsules open in summer. Likes well drained soil with regular water, and plenty of organic matter will see the tree thrive.

Family : Meliaceae

Cultivar Name:

Plant Type : Large tree

Width : 15

Flowering Time : Spring

Soil Type : Clay, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam

Climate Zone : Tropical, Sub-tropical, Warm temperate

Growth Habit : Deciduous, Spreading

Soil Moisture : Moist moderate drainage

Special Uses : Fast growing

Scientific Name: Toona ciliata

Common Name : Red Cedar

Height : 60

Flower Color : Cream

pH Level : Acid, Neutral

Plant Environment :

Light : Sunny, Light shade

Lifespan :

Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost

Attracts Wildlife :