Foambark Tree

Overview: A small to medium, very hardy tree to 15m. Its bark was used by Aborigines as a fish poison. It contains saponins, which break the bonds of water molecules, causing them to lose oxygen. The fish suffocate and float to the surface. The effect wears off quickly if there is a flow, and it has not coated the gills.

Attracts Lewin's Honeyeater, Paradise Riflebird, Regent and Satin Bowerbirds and Noisy Miner.

Host plant for caterpillars of Nacaduba berenice butterflies (Six Line Blue) along with other SAPINDACEAE and PROTEACEAE. The Caterpillar is usually attended by small black ants.

It provides food, medicine, fire and tools: a wonderful all-rounder in the Australian plant pantheon.

More information

http://www.saveourwaterwaysnow.com.au/01_cms/details_pop.asp?ID=189