Leopard Tree

Leopard Tree (Libidibia ferrea) is a fast growing feature tree for acreage and large gardens, reaching up to 20m. Its smooth, cream coloured bark is dappled like a leopard's coat, fern like leaves cast light shade, and yellow flowers open from late spring into summer. It needs room, so choose its position for the size it will be, not the size it is now.

Why you'll love it

• Bark with character. Smooth, cream coloured bark is dappled, which keeps the trunk interesting through the year, flower or no flower.
• Light, ferny shade. Fern like leaves filter the sun instead of blocking it, which suits underplanting with shade loving foliage plants.
• Fast growing. It puts on height quickly, so shade arrives sooner than with slower canopy trees.
• Yellow flowers. Clusters of yellow flowers appear from late spring into summer.
• Drought tolerant. Established trees cope with dry spells, which suits large properties where watering is limited.

Where it works best

Acreage and large gardens. Plant it as a specimen on open ground, at least 8m from buildings, pipes and driveways, with room for a broad canopy.

Shade for open space. Place it on the sunny side of a yard or seating area to create dappled shade as it matures, and underplant with foliage plants for colour.

Feature planting. The bark is the feature, so give it a clear apron of lawn or gravel where the trunk can be seen.

Growing Leopard Tree in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade, away from underground pipes, foundations and driveways. It prefers warm climates, so tropical, subtropical and warm temperate gardens suit it best. It will come through a light overnight frost once mature, but young trees need protection. Expect some leaf drop in late winter, because it is semi deciduous.

Soil. Well drained soil is the main requirement. Mulch the root zone, keeping the mulch clear of the trunk. Surface roots can lift paving, so keep it off slabs and paths.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks, then it copes with dry weather. A slow release fertiliser in spring helps a young tree get away.

Pruning. Prune while the tree is young to build a tidy habit: remove crossing and low branches and keep a clear trunk. Mature trees need little attention.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Leopard Tree as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. A tube is a small plant, so expect to wait a few years before it throws real shade. Plant it out soon after arrival in a spot chosen for its final size, mulch it, and water it regularly.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse more feature trees
• Other fast growing shade trees
• The best shade trees for Australian gardens
• Where to place shade trees around a house

Common questions

How big does a leopard tree get?

Up to 20m tall, with a broad canopy to match. It is a tree for acreage and large gardens, not for small suburban blocks.

How far from the house should I plant it?

Well clear. Keep it away from underground pipes, foundations and driveways, and allow at least 8m, because surface roots can lift paving.

Will it grow in a cooler climate?

It prefers warm climates. A mature tree will come through a light overnight frost, but young trees need protection, and in colder districts it may struggle.