Southern silky oak

Value for beekeeping

Southern silky oak is a fast-growing tree native to the east coast of Australia. In Kenya, India and South America it is planted as a shade tree in coffee and tea plantations, and in the Mediterranean as a park tree. Its one-sided, brush-like, golden-orange flower clusters secrete abundant nectar and are visited heavily by bees and nectar-feeding birds.

Flowering

In its native range it flowers between September and November, that is, in the southern hemisphere spring. On the Mediterranean coasts of the northern hemisphere where it is planted, flowering shifts to April–June.

Honey and pollen

In the tropical regions where it is grown it contributes significantly to mixed tree honey; a separate, defined monofloral honey is not common. Its pollen contribution is moderate.

Note for the beekeeper

Some compounds in its flowers and leaves can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive people; wear gloves when pruning and tending it. It has been reported to spread into natural areas in Hawaii and South Africa.