Dendrocnide excelsa
(Giant Stinging Tree)
Classification
| Division:
|
Magnoliophyta
|
| Class:
|
Magnoliopsida
|
| Family:
|
Urticaceae
|
Geographic Range
The Giant Stinging Tree is found in Coastal Queensland and New South Wales.
Physical Characteristics
| Height: | up to 40 m |
| Diameter: | up to 2 m |
Dendrocnide excelsa bark is grey, smooth when young, and rougher and scaly when the tree is more mature. Leaves are alternating and heart-shaped with serrated margins. The leaves are from 15 to 30cm in length, and 15 to 20cm in width. The stalks are 2 to 15 cm long. Both sides of the leaves, and leaf stems, contain stiff stinging hairs. The flowers are yellowish green. Dendrocnide excelsa flowers in fall and early winter, and bears fruit throughout fall and winter. The fruit is a flat, black nut, 1 to 2 mm across. It is surrounded by an edible, fleshy material, which is white to light pink in color.
Natural History
Reproduction
Dendrocnide excelsa reproduces quickly in open areas. A single tree bears only male or female flowers.
Habitat
Dendrocnide excelsa is found in drier portions of subtropical rainforest, especially in cleared or disturbed areas such as roads or treefall gaps.
Conservation/Biodiversity
Dendrocnide excelsa is a possible nesting site for the Sooty Owl, which is currently listed as a vulnerable species.
Image Source
| Entry Author: |
Carrie J. Niles |
William Smith College |
2003 |