Lophostemon confertus trialing of new material

In terms of production, Lophostemon confertus 'ST1' has shown itself to be fast, colourful and tough. The branch structure is strong and slightly upright.  Leaf size, shape and colour has remained consistent and healthy.  The tree was quick to shadow the lower branches and form its first crown which is considerably different to Lophostemon confertus 'ST2'. Growth has been even on all sides and you call tell, even from this early stage that this tree wants to grow large and full.  The bark is very deep orange and while juvenile, very smooth.  Early indications is that this tree would be suited as a feature tree in parks and large gardens. Now in the grafting process, this tree has run very smootly, with minimal to zero swelling. Zero bleeding on all grafts has given us enormous confidence in this process.

In terms of production, it is clear to see that Lophostemon confertus 'ST2' has that slight ascending branch structure and the internode spaces are tight giving a very full look in the pot. These signs indicate the tree will remain true to the parent and grow full and upright.  The bark is not as colourful and strong as Lophostemon confertus 'ST1' and the leaf size is considerably smaller.  From certain angles the tree looks more comfortable as a screening tree in the pot rather than a street or specimen tree.  The grafting on 'ST2' has also run without fault. Minimal to zero swelling and zero bleeding on all grafts has given usenormous confidence in the process.

For more information on either of these two trees under development, please contact the office on 03 9796 8308. And any feedback you would like to submit on either tree, likes, dislikes and potential uses would be very appreciated here.