The Story
Plant Bio
Dillenia alata is an evergreen tree native to the coastal rainforests and swampy lowlands of northern Australia and Southeast Asia. The species develops a dense, shady canopy supported by a characteristically crooked or fluted trunk with flaking, reddish-brown papery bark.
It is distinguished by its large, glossy dark green leaves featuring prominent winged petioles that sheath the stems, and new growth that emerges in shades of reddish-brown. The bright yellow flowers open in late spring and summer, displaying a central cluster of contrasting pink to reddish-pink styles and anthers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
393 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
10
Water
Ample
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Northern Territory, Queensland, New Guinea, Indonesia, SE Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and backfill with organic matter to improve moisture retention.
- Water deeply and regularly after planting to establish the root system, keeping the soil consistently moist.
- Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Pro Tip
Planting this species in a moisture-retentive depression mimics its natural swampy habitat and prevents the stunting caused by artificial dryness.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry summer periods.
- Protect young trees from frost using temporary covers in marginal climates.
- Mulch heavily to replicate the organic layer of its native rainforest floor.
Don't
- Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, as prolonged drought stunts growth.
- Avoid heavy pruning into old, leafless wood, which results in poor recovery.
- Do not plant in highly alkaline soils that restrict nutrient uptake.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red beech questions
What zones can Red beech grow in?
Red beech is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Red beech bloom?
Red beech typically blooms in late spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red beech need full sun?
Red beech does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red beech with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.