Blackwood

Blackwood is the largest of the wattle trees, growing up to 50 metres (164 feet). It is tolerant of a wide variety of conditions from sub-tropical coastal to cold inland areas. It is found from south-east Queensland to Tasmania but is most common on our Island and in Victoria.

The hard, rough, furrowed trunk is characteristic of blackwood. Its 'leaves' are actually flattened leaf stalks and the flowers are whitish to pale yellow.

It has been recognised since the 19^th century as a high-quality ornamental timber used in wood-turning and furniture-making. The wood is strikingly similar to American walnut.

You can see a protected stand of blackwood trees in a giant sinkhole at Dismal Swamp, west of Smithton.