This tree is an import from Australia, like the Eucalyptus. It has become a staple in many an Indian garden because of its handsome crown, attractive silvery, fern-like leaves and lovely yellow flowers.
Interestingly, the Silver Oak flowers bear no petals – they contain only the male and the female parts, carpel and stamens, with the stigma bent over like a hairpin and giving the entire cluster of flowers the look of a wire brush. The flower arrangement is secund, that is, they are all arranged on one side only. Its flowers are rich in nectar and attract birds, bats and insects in their native range. The seeds are light enough to be dispersed by winds. The Silver Oak was initially introduced in India as a shade tree in tea plantations. Being evergreen and fast-growing, it was considered a good choice.