Angophora costata, Smooth barked Apple

Angophora costata, commonly known as Smooth-barked Apple, is a striking Australian native tree admired for its twisted branches, pink to orange smooth bark, and broad, spreading canopy. It can grow up to 25 metres tall in ideal conditions and is often found along the east coast in bushland settings. In summer, it produces clusters of creamy-white flowers that attract birds, bees, and other pollinators.

In Australia, this tree thrives in full sun and well-drained sandy or loamy soils. It is tolerant of dry periods once established and handles coastal conditions well. Its natural habitat includes sandstone ridges, making it well-suited to gardens with similar soil types. While it is drought-hardy, young trees benefit from deep watering during dry spells.

Angophora costata is best planted in open spaces where it has room to mature. It grows relatively slowly but develops a beautiful form over time. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, and minimal pruning is needed aside from removing dead or crossed branches.

Suitable companion plants include native grasses such as Themeda triandra and Lomandra longifolia, as well as low-growing shrubs like Brachyscome multifida, Grevillea lanigera, and Hardenbergia violacea to complement its naturalistic aesthetic and support local biodiversity.