Karrabina biagiana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Karrabina biagiana |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Karrabina
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| Species: |
biagiana
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The Karrabina biagiana is a type of large rainforest tree. People often call it the northern brush mahogany, northern brush mararie, or red carabeen. It belongs to the plant family Cunoniaceae. This tree used to be known by a different name, Geissois biagiana.
Where It Lives
These special trees are found only in the wet tropics rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia. This means they are endemic to that area.
You can find them widely in the old, lush tropical rainforests. They grow at different heights, from about 100 to 1,100 meters (330 to 3,600 feet) above sea level. They are often found in larger numbers near streams and rivers.
What It Looks Like
Mature Karrabina biagiana trees are very tall, growing over 30 meters (100 feet) high. They have large buttresses, which are wide, strong roots that help support the tree at its base.
The leaves grow in pairs opposite each other on the stem. Each leaf is a compound leaf, meaning it's made up of three smaller leaflets. These leaflets are large and have jagged edges, measuring about 11 to 20 centimeters (4 to 8 inches) long and 4 to 8 centimeters (1.5 to 3 inches) wide.
At the point where the leaves attach to the stem, there are large, noticeable structures called stipules. When new parts of the tree grow, like new branches or leaves, they are a bright, eye-catching red color.
Flowers and Seeds
Near the ends of the new branches, you'll see groups of small, cream-colored flowers. These flower clusters are called inflorescences. Each tiny flower is only about 3 to 4 millimeters (0.1 to 0.15 inches) across.
After the flowers bloom, the tree produces capsules. These are like small seed pods, about 10 to 12 millimeters (0.4 to 0.5 inches) long, and covered in short hairs. When these capsules are ready, they open up. Inside, they release many small, winged seeds that can float away in the wind.
Uses of the Tree
The wood from the Karrabina biagiana tree is strong and useful. It is valued for building things, making it an important timber tree.
Growing These Trees
People are starting to grow these trees more often in gardens and parks. They are becoming popular because of their beautiful, striking leaves and their lovely blossoms.
