Cupaniopsis Anacardioides

Tuckeroo / Carrotwood / Beach Tamarind

Botanical Name: Cupaniopsis anacardioides
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Australia (coastal QLD–NSW)
Plant Type: Evergreen tree

Overview

A dependable, street-tree-grade native for South Australian gardens. Tuckeroo forms a rounded canopy of glossy dark green leaves (new growth coppery) and in spring (with some winter bloom) bears greenish-yellow/cream flower panicles, followed by bright orange capsules with showy seeds that birds love. Handles coast, heat and dry once established.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 7-8 m H x 4-5 m W
• Growth Rate: 30-60 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Glossy, rounded leaflets; new growth copper-bronze; neat, rounded crown
• Flowers: Greenish-yellow to creamy-white panicles mainly spring (some winter); decorative orange capsules follow.
  
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen structure; spring flowers and summer–autumn fruit for colour and wildlife
• Wildlife Value: Nectar and fruit for birds and beneficial insects
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant
  coastal-tolerant; light–moderate frost (protect young trees)
• Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: ~1 tree per 9–16 m² (3–4 m apart) depending on canopy
• Pet Friendly: Generally considered non-toxic; any plant material may cause mild GI upset if eaten

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best canopy and flowering in sun)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam; tolerates coastal sands and improved clay; lime tolerant. Avoid waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; formative prune if needed; remove lower shoots to raise canopy; light feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 25-50 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Acid, Neutral, Alkaline — broadly adaptable in good drainage

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Street-tree style feature or boundary screening (not a clipped hedge)
• Avenue planting at 3–4 m centres for cohesive structure
• Great near entries, paths and outdoor living; excellent urban/coastal performer

Why You Will Love It

Fast, reliable and low-maintenance. Tuckeroo brings a lush, glossy canopy, spring flowers and bright fruit for wildlife, with proven coastal, heat and drought resilience once established — a savvy, long-term value tree for SA gardens.