Eucalyptus? The first thing that comes to mind is the aromatic cough drop. But the Australian deciduous tree has many more interesting properties than just the effects of its essential oils. The approximately 600 different varieties alone make the tree something very special. The profile on this page is full of exciting information about the eucalyptus.

We associate one thing above all with eucalyptus trees: koalas

General

  • Synonyms: Tasmanian blue gum tree, fever tree
  • Genus: Eucalyptus
  • Family: Myrtle family (Myrtaceae)
  • Species worldwide: around 600
  • Emits an intense odor that repels insects
  • Toxic?: yes, slightly
  • Possible forms of cultivation: outdoor, tub, houseplant
  • Propagation: via seeds

name derivation

Did you know that the name eucalyptus refers to the appearance of its flower. The name is derived from the Greek and means "beautiful (eu) cap (kalyptus)". The arrangement of the pistil and stamens is reminiscent of a cap.

Special Varieties

  • Eucalyptus gunii: low growth (40 cm per year), hardy

origin, occurrence and distribution

  • Origin: Tasmania, Australia
  • Main area of distribution: Mediterranean

location

  • Grows up to 1000 meters altitude
  • Loves sunny locations
  • Also grows on dry soil
  • As a pioneer tree, it displaces some native vegetation

habit

  • Maximum growth height: 30-35 meters (under good conditions even up to 100 meters)
  • Rapid growth

fruit

  • Type of fruit: capsule fruit
  • Color: brown
  • Shape: flattened, small cones, conical
  • Valve-like openings at the ends for seed release
  • Also known as gumhuts

blossom

  • Gender: hermaphrodite, monoecious
  • Colour: white to off-white, red or yellow
  • Flowering period: from May to July
  • Shape: umbel
  • Pollination: by birds and insects

leaves

  • Arrangement: opposite
  • Shape: oblong or round (depending on the species)
  • Leaf margin: slightly notched, toothed or smooth (depending on the species)
  • Heterophyllia (leaves change in color and shape with age)
  • Without petiole
  • Colour: light green, some species shimmering bluish white
  • Glittering
  • Rotated by 90° to prevent excessive insolation

bark

  • Smooth
  • Bright
  • Forms scales that flake off
  • Forms a new layer of bark every year

use

  • For wood use
  • To relieve colds (tea or dragee), clears the airways in bronchitis
  • Essential oils for sauna and steam baths
  • In creams or as a bath additive

Category:

Trees