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Angophora hispida - Dwarf Apple Gum

About Your New Angophora hispida - Dwarf Apple Gum

Angophora hispida, the Dwarf Apple, is a small Australian native tree or large shrub with a rounded, densely branched crown. Bristly red-bronze new stems set off broad green leaves, and in late spring and summer the canopy carries big clusters of creamy white flowers. Older trunks develop the gnarled character the genus is known for.

It reaches 3 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 4 metres wide, growing 30 to 60 centimetres a year. Full sun and sandy or loamy soil with free drainage suit it best, matching the sandstone country it comes from. Established plants handle light frost and extended dry weather. Maintenance is limited to formative pruning in the early years.

Plant it as a small feature tree in native gardens, as informal screening at 1 to 1.5 metres apart, or in biodiversity and revegetation work where nectar sources matter. It fits under powerlines and in courtyards where a full-sized gum would be unworkable. The flowering brings in honeyeaters, native bees and beetles through summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Dwarf Apple

What is Angophora hispida?

Angophora hispida is an Australian native small tree or large shrub from the sandstone country around Sydney, in the family Myrtaceae. It is known as the Dwarf Apple for its rounded, apple-tree-like crown. Bristly red new stems, broad green leaves and dense clusters of creamy white summer flowers are its defining features.

How big does Dwarf Apple grow?

It reaches 3 to 5 metres high and 2 to 4 metres wide at maturity, which makes it one of the few members of the gum family that genuinely suits a suburban block. The rounded crown broadens with age. Its modest final size means it can be planted under powerlines and near buildings without future conflict.

How fast does it grow?

Growth runs at roughly 30 to 60 centimetres a year once established, which is moderate rather than rapid. Trees planted from advanced stock reach useful screening height within a few seasons. Growth is fastest in warm weather with reliable drainage, and slows noticeably in compacted or waterlogged soil.

When does Dwarf Apple flower?

Flowering runs from late spring into summer, generally November through January, when the canopy fills with clusters of creamy white flowers. The display is heavy enough to obscure the foliage in a good year. Woody seed capsules follow and stay on the tree for some time, adding texture through the cooler months.

Where does Angophora hispida grow best in Australia?

It is at its best in warm temperate and subtropical coastal districts from Sydney north, and it performs well anywhere with sandy, free draining soil and full sun. It also grows in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth given good drainage. Heavy clay and permanently wet ground are the conditions to avoid.

How far apart should I plant it for screening?

For a dense informal screen, plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart, or 80 centimetres for a tighter formal hedge line. As a feature tree, allow 3 to 4 metres between plants so each canopy can develop its full rounded shape. Avenue plantings sit at about 3 metres apart for an even line.

How do I care for Dwarf Apple?

Water regularly through the first two summers, then only in prolonged dry spells. Use a native fertiliser low in phosphorus, applied lightly in spring. Prune in the first few years to set a clear leader or a multi-stemmed shape, whichever you want, then leave it alone. Mulch to 75 millimetres, keeping it clear of the trunk.

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Uses in my Garden

  • Feature Tree
  • Rural Property Planting
  • Revegetation or Regeneration
  • Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots

Angophora hispida - Dwarf Apple Gum works in an:

  • Australian Native Garden – celebrates local plants with natural character.
  • Coastal Garden – relaxed, seaside feel with hardy, textural plants.
  • Modern Garden – sleek, minimal, and design-led planting.
  • Wildlife Garden – planting to attract birds, bees, and pollinators.
  • Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

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