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Sarsaparilla Tree: Alphitonia spp.
Also known as
pink and white ash, these trees cover themselves with blossom in springtime, the
nectar and pollen attracting many birds and insects.
This pioneer species is
extremely fast growing, but relatively short-lived.
It is one of the first
species to establish itself in disturbed areas and is common along roadsides and
other forest edges.
The leaves of this tree are silvery white on the underside,
the tree glowing distinctively when lit from underneath by a spotlight at night.
These leaves are often chosen by tooth-billed bowerbirds to decorate their
performing spaces and they are an important food source for Herbert river
ringtail possums and Lumholtz tree-kangaroos.
They are also a food source for
the caterpillars of the small green-banded blue butterfly and eight species of
moths.
When crushed, the leaves, as well as the bark, smell like sarsaparilla.
About six months after flowering,
dull black globular fruits, each about 1.5cm across, appear.
These attract
numerous birds including superb fruit doves, Victoria's riflebirds, king parrots
and crimson rosellas.
Script: Courtesy of Environmental Protection Agency |
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