Needlewood Tree Schima wallichii

The needlewood tree is a medium to tall evergreen tree in the tea family (Theaceae). It is found in the warm-temperate regions of southeast Asia. The genus name, Schima, is derived from the Greek word for shadow, skiasma. This probably refers to the shadow that the dense crown of the tree creates. It is named after Nathaniel Wallich, a Danish botanist. There are different common names depending on the country's location. It has been found in a wide variety of habitats including mountain forests, grasslands, rainforests, swamps, and roadside ditches in its native country.

Even though the needlewood tree can grow in a variety of habitats and soils, it grows best in acidic, well-drained soils and warm, humid climates. They can grow in full sun or part shade. In southeast Asia, they can grow up to 130 feet. However, needlewood trees grown from seeds in California and Texas have only grown twenty to forty feet tall, and twenty feet wide after 20 years. The largest cultivated needlewood tree in Britain is sixty-five feet.

The needlewood tree is very fragrant and can bloom several times a year. They only need a moderate amount of water. It has survived light frosts and intense summer heat in California. They can be planted in light understory or along the roadside. The seeds can be started in a pot and can flower when it is only two feet tall.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. The inner bark can cause skin irritation.