Ray of sunshine

The illyarrie (Eucalyptus erythrocorys) is a Western Australian native tree with a spectacular floral display.
This adaptable small to medium tree is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, and provides valuable habitat, bringing both wildlife and movement into the garden.
The standout feature is the contrast between the textured scarlet caps of the flower buds and the fluffy, golden-yellow blooms that appear from under them. The flowers are followed by large, angular fruit, with branches drooping gracefully under the weight of the nuts to create an open canopy and a weeping habit. Smooth, creamy bark provides a soft counterpoint to the mid-green, sickle-shaped leaves. 
Illyarrie thrives in coastal conditions, is useful for erosion control and versatile enough to grow in large pots.
Like many eucalypts, this species has a lignotuber, a woody swelling at the base of the trunk that allows it to reshoot after bushfire or other damage. It supports a wide range of reptiles, butterflies, insects and birds, like the beautiful white-cheeked honeyeater pictured. Read more about this incredible tree, in our April issue, out now! 

Photo: iStock