Cork Bark, Bootlace Oak, Corkwood oak, Western cork tree
Hakea lorea
Family: Proteaceae
What it is like
A small gnarled tree. It grows 4-5 m high. The bark is thick, corky and furrowed. The leaves are needle like and 30 cm long and have a sharp point. The flowers are in yellow clusters. The fruits are in clusters. They are woody. These woody capsules have beaks. They contain 2 winged seeds. These are released when the capsule splits open.
There are about 130 Hakea species.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in sandy loams on plains. It grows on rocky soils. It can tolerate frosts. It needs a warm sunny position and a well-drained soil. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The flowers are either sucked to get the nectar or squeezed into water to produce a sweet drink.
Edible parts
Flowers - nectar, drink
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed.
Plants are slow growing.
Its other names
Local names
Kartanpa, Witjinti