About
Stenocarpus sinuatus, the Australian firewheel tree, is a striking evergreen tree producing large, glossy, deeply lobed leaves and spectacular, wheel-shaped clusters of bright red and yellow flowers in summer and autumn. An ornamental and eye-catching specimen for a warm, frost-free garden.
About the genus
Stenocarpus is a genus of evergreen trees in the family Proteaceae, native to Australia and New Caledonia. Species produce handsome, often variably lobed leaves and clusters of showy, often red or cream flowers, and are grown as ornamental specimen trees in warm, frost-free conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native toMadagascar
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass grow in peat-free compost, in full light with shade from hot sun. During growth, water and mist freely. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every two to three weeks. Water sparingly in winter and support climbing stems. Usually grown as a houseplant. You can follow tips on growing tender jasmine for successful stephanotis cultivation
PruningPruning group 11
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 18-21°C in spring or strike semi-hardwood cuttings in summer, with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, glasshouse red spider mite, mealybugs and root mealybug
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free