A very resilient Australian native, commonly planted across the country for shade and shelter. Eucalyptus sideroxylon has dark, almost black, deeply furrowed bark that contrasts beautifully with its grey-green leaves. From April to December, it produces clusters of creamy yellow to red-pink flowers that attract nectar, insect and seed-eating birds. It tolerates a wide range of soils and rainfall, including moderately limey and dry conditions, provided the soil is well drained. Once established it needs little attention, though growth may be smaller on shallow, dry sites. Like all large amenity trees, it should be monitored for safety as it matures.