Every landscape needs a statement piece, that one tree or sculptural form that draws the eye and defines the space. At Evergreen Trees Direct, we’re constantly surrounded by inspiring specimens, and this season we’re loving a collection of unique feature trees that offer texture, character, and instant impact.
Here are eight standout trees, available now in large sizes (including stunning 500L specimens), that can instantly transform any garden or commercial landscape.
1. Brachychiton rupestris (Queensland Bottle Tree)
A true Australian icon, Brachychiton rupestris is admired for its distinctive swollen trunk and soft green canopy. Its unique silhouette makes it one of the most sculptural trees you can plant.
Key Features:
Height: 8–12m
Width: 4–6m
Foliage: Soft green, semi-deciduous
Trunk: Characteristic bottle-shaped form
Best For: Statement planting, dry gardens, large landscapes
Why It’s Special:
Each Bottle Tree develops its own unique shape and character, adding personality to any landscape. It thrives in full sun and adapts well to poor soils once established.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Eucalyptus cinerea or Banksia integrifolia for a modern native look.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in open, sunny positions with good drainage. Allow space for the trunk to expand as the tree matures.
Shop Brachychiton rupestris now
2. Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)
Few trees match the elegance of Acer palmatum. These mature 500L specimens bring instant structure and colour, with delicate branching and brilliant seasonal foliage.
Key Features:
Height: 4–6m
Width: 3–4m
Foliage: Deep green through summer, fiery red to orange in autumn
Form: Graceful, rounded canopy
Best For: Feature planting, courtyards, Japanese-inspired gardens
Why It’s Special:
A large, established Acer palmatum provides an immediate sense of maturity and calm to the garden. Its layered canopy filters light beautifully, creating tranquil, dappled shade.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ for a blend of seasonal colour and evergreen texture.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in sheltered positions with morning sun and protection from hot winds. Keep soil evenly moist through summer.
3. Washingtonia robusta (Mexican Fan Palm)
Tall, slender, and striking, Washingtonia robusta creates instant resort-style impact. Its fan-shaped fronds and stately trunk make it a favourite for poolside or architectural gardens.
Key Features:
Height: 10–20m
Width: 3–5m canopy spread
Foliage: Bright green, fan-shaped fronds
Trunk: Tall and slim with a textured finish
Best For: Statement planting, tropical or modern landscapes
Why It’s Special:
Nothing says “holiday at home” like a row of Washingtonia robusta. They thrive in full sun and coastal conditions, adding vertical rhythm to any landscape.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Phoenix roebellinii for layered tropical contrast.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 3–5m apart for a balanced avenue effect.
Shop Washingtonia robusta now
4. Phoenix roebellinii (Pygmy Date Palm)
Compact and graceful, Phoenix roebellinii adds a tropical touch to courtyards and poolside spaces. Its arching fronds and textured trunk provide elegant structure without overwhelming smaller gardens.
Key Features:
Height: 2–4m
Width: 2–3m
Foliage: Fine, arching, deep green fronds
Best For: Pool areas, pots, tropical gardens
Why It’s Special:
This palm’s soft, feathery foliage and manageable size make it ideal for both residential and commercial landscapes.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Washingtonia robusta for a lush layered tropical look.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in full sun to part shade. Keep soil moist through establishment, and remove old fronds to maintain shape.
5. Magnolia grandiflora ‘Teddy Bear’ – 500L Specimens
Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ remains a designer favourite for good reason. Its compact, upright shape, glossy green leaves, and large creamy white flowers make it a luxurious evergreen statement.
Key Features:
Height: 3–4m
Width: 2–3m
Flowers: Large white blooms, summer through autumn
Foliage: Glossy green with bronze undersides
Best For: Feature planting, screening, formal gardens
Why It’s Special:
A 500L Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ adds immediate structure and elegance to any property. It’s ideal for instant hedging or statement planting.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Tristaniopsis laurina ‘Luscious’ for a polished evergreen design.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in full sun to part shade. Water deeply through establishment and mulch well to retain moisture.
Shop Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ now
6. Tristaniopsis laurina ‘Luscious’
With glossy green foliage and smooth, mottled bark, Tristaniopsis ‘Luscious’ is one of the most versatile Australian natives. Its summer display of yellow flowers attracts birds and pollinators.
Key Features:
Height: 6–8m
Width: 4–5m
Flowers: Yellow, summer
Foliage: Deep green, coppery new growth
Best For:
Evergreen structure, feature planting, screening
Why It’s Special:
This advanced specimen provides instant impact and density, while maintaining a soft, lush look. It’s perfect for modern Australian gardens.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ for a refined evergreen duo.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in full sun or light shade, with well-drained soil. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Shop Tristaniopsis ‘Luscious’ now
7. Camellia sasanqua (Ball-Formed)
Nothing beats the formality of a perfectly shaped Camellia sasanqua ball. These 500L specimens bring instant elegance and symmetry to entryways or structured garden designs.
Key Features:
Height: 2–3m (depending on pruning)
Width: 2–3m
Flowers: Pink or white, autumn to early winter
Foliage: Fine, evergreen, glossy leaves
Best For:
Feature pots, formal gardens, entrances
Why It’s Special:
The craftsmanship of a mature Camellia sasanqua ball provides instant formality. It’s low-maintenance and flowers beautifully as cooler months approach.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ or Acer palmatum for layered evergreen contrast.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in filtered light or part sun. Maintain shape with light trimming after flowering.
Shop Camellia sasanqua balls now
8. Morus nigra (Black Mulberry)
A timeless fruiting tree with beautiful form, Morus nigra combines heritage charm with glossy foliage and delicious summer fruit.
Key Features:
Height: 6–8m
Width: 5–6m
Foliage: Broad green leaves, turning yellow in autumn
Fruit: Black edible mulberries in summer
Best For: Productive gardens, shade, feature planting
Why It’s Special:
A mature Morus nigra is a living sculpture that provides shade, texture, and bounty. Its spreading canopy creates a natural focal point for larger gardens.
Perfect Pair:
Pairs perfectly with Tristaniopsis ‘Luscious’ for contrast between fruiting and flowering canopies.
Tips for Planting:
Plant in full sun with deep, fertile soil. Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain shape.
Final Thoughts
Each of these unique trees offers something extraordinary, whether it’s the sculptural form of Brachychiton rupestris, the tropical drama of Washingtonia robusta, or the refined evergreen structure of Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’.
With many available in advanced 500L sizes, these trees deliver immediate impact and long-term beauty for your landscape.
Explore the full collection of feature trees at Evergreen Trees Direct and find the perfect statement piece for your next project.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.