Thanks Richard and Muzz, but I have to agree with Muzz that bamboo doesnt really strike me as a canopy plant : it lacks that spreading habit at the top which characterizes most shrubs and trees. As I indicated in my initial post, I would probably have used bamboo for my fenceline if I had known about the clumping varieties 12 months ago, although I suspect that it would have sparked calls to the council from my neighbours :) When I consider my 'perfect' plant, its a tough set of attributes to match: * min 3m tall, and at least 2m wide, but not too large for my 700 sq m block * fast-growing, but not a weed * tough, but not a weed * able to handle -2 C to 45 deg C, in full sun * able to make the transition to part-shade when other plants begin to grow around it * attractive foliage * pest and disease resistant * moderate water requirements The closest thing that I've found to date is the humble lillypilly, although my Murrayas are also doing well. The most astounding discovery has been the change in my soil wrought by a little TLC - from baked clay to wonderfully crumbly, friable soil. To those who are struggling with heavy clay, dont lose faith - keep the compost and mulch up to it, and you'll be pleasantly surprised in 6-12 months.

Well my garden is more diverse per unit area than most of the worlds forests! Also I will be travelling back up here as much as possible. I have an extensive backlog of NQ plant photos that will keep me happy for a while! Good to see that the newsletter was appreciated. From Kris

Hi Chardy, Diploglottis berniana, Deplanchea (tetraphylla). Mis(ch)ocarpus grandissimus Franscisodendron laurifloia (Franciscodendron laurifolium) As Grant mentioned yes Yuruga however Deplanchea and D. berniana are often available from specialist nurseries down south. Franciscodendron is rarely available. All these species can be grown in moist areas in QLD. Good luck Why stop there!

Hello Artie, As an ex-Rockyite, I would be happy to meet you over a cup of coffee and point you in the direction of some of the sights. Send me an email grant@cairns.net.au No gardens, I'm afraid, but I know where the better nurseries are plus a few good botanical walks, as I know you are interested in natives. You have picked a good time as many of the street trees are starting to bloom. Plenty of Deplancheas in bloom on the streets and hills around Cairns and Tabebuias and Golden Pendas are all in flower. Not to mention the Golden Saracas, and a whole host of natives that the Council has planted in the median strips which are a constant source of enjoyment and intrigue - mainly of "what the hell is THAT plant!", variety. I have both Mucuna novo-guinessis and Stronglodon macrobotrys vines about to bloom in my garden and am looking forward to some fabulous colour in a week or so. They should also be in bloom at Flecker Gardens. I am going there for breakfast Sunday morning so I should be up to speed on what is in flower. Grant