Buckinghamia celsissima, commonly known as the Ivory Curl Flower Tree, is a striking Australian native tree admired for its glossy foliage, architectural form, and spectacular cream-coloured flowers. Naturally found in Queensland rainforests, it has become a popular choice for feature planting, avenue trees, and landscape projects in warm Australian climates.

This elegant native tree is well suited to both residential and commercial landscapes, offering visual impact with relatively low ongoing maintenance once established.

Key Features & Benefits

• Distinctive cream “curl flower” blooms with architectural form
• Glossy, deep-green foliage year round
• Excellent feature or specimen tree
• Attracts birds and native wildlife
• Suitable for subtropical and warm temperate climates
• Low maintenance once established

Mature Size & Growth Rate

• Height: 8–15 metres (can be kept smaller with pruning)
• Width: 4–6 metres
• Growth rate: Moderate

Buckinghamia celsissima develops into an attractive medium to large tree, making it ideal for feature planting or for use as a shade tree in larger gardens and landscaped spaces.

Flowers & Foliage

The standout feature of this tree is its unusual, upright ivory to cream-coloured flowers, which appear from late winter through spring. The flowers are followed by decorative seed pods, while the lush, glossy foliage provides year-round appeal.

Position & Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with organic matter
• Water: Regular watering during establishment; moderate thereafter
• Climate: Best suited to NSW coastal areas, QLD & other frost-free regions

While tolerant of a range of conditions, Buckinghamia celsissima performs best in warm climates with protection from heavy frost when young.

Pruning & Maintenance

Minimal pruning is required. Remove any dead or crossing branches as needed to maintain shape. Pruning can also be used to control height and spread in smaller landscapes.

Common Uses

• Feature or specimen tree
• Subtropical and native gardens
• Residential estates and large gardens
• Commercial and civic landscaping
• Bird-attracting gardens

Why Builders & Landscapers Choose This Plant

Buckinghamia celsissima is frequently selected for landscape projects where a distinctive native feature tree is required. Its strong visual impact, reliability in warm climates, and low maintenance needs make it an excellent choice for builders and landscapers seeking standout results without complex care requirements.

Available Pot Sizes

Available in a range of nursery pot sizes suitable for both instant feature planting and longer-term landscape establishment. Select a size above to view current availability.

Australian Native – Grown for Local Conditions

As an Australian native species, Buckinghamia celsissima is well adapted to local conditions and supports biodiversity, making it an excellent choice for sustainable landscape design.