The Blue Mountains Gum - Description and Ecology
Eucalyptus deanei, commonly known as mountain blue gum, round-leaved gum,[2] or Deane's gum,[3] is a species of large tree endemic to New South Wales. It has smooth bark, lance-shaped leaves that are paler on the lower surface, flower buds in groups of seven to eleven, white flowers and cup-shaped to bell-shaped fruit.
Eucalyptus deanei typically grows as a straight forest tree, growing a height of 40–65 m (131–213 ft) with a trunk diameter of up to 2 m (6 ft 7 in) at breast height. Some specimens exceed 75 m (246 ft) but in less than optimal sites, it may be restricted to 20–30 m (66–98 ft), have a thicker trunk and more branching crown. The trunk has smooth pale grey or cream bark with a 'skirt' of rougher greyish or brownish bark at the base. Young plants and coppice regrowth have egg-shaped to more or less round leaves 40–105 mm (1.6–4.1 in) long and 25–60 mm (0.98–2.36 in) wide. Adult leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, lance-shaped, glossy dark green on the upper surface and paler below. They are 70–180 mm (2.8–7.1 in) long and 15–40 mm (0.59–1.57 in) wide on a petiole 17–40 mm (0.67–1.57 in) long.[2][3][4][5][6]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus_deanei
Eucalyptus deanei, commonly known as Blue Gum, is a species of eucalyptus tree native to Australia. Here are some key characteristics and information about this particular species:
- Appearance: Eucalyptus deanei is a tall evergreen tree that can reach heights of 30-50 meters (98-164 feet) with a straight trunk. The tree has smooth, mottled bark that ranges in color from pale gray to bluish-gray, hence the common name "Blue Gum."
- Leaves: The leaves of Eucalyptus deanei are lance-shaped, glossy, and dark green. They are arranged alternately along the branches. The leaves are approximately 10-15 centimeters (4-6 inches) long and 1.5-2.5 centimeters (0.6-1 inch) wide.
- Flowers: The tree produces small white flowers that are clustered together in groups called inflorescences. The flowers appear in late winter to early spring and are followed by small woody capsules containing the tree's seeds.
- Habitat: Eucalyptus deanei is endemic to southeastern Australia, specifically in the state of New South Wales. It typically grows in wet sclerophyll forests and along watercourses, preferring moist and well-drained soils.
- Ecological Importance: Like other eucalyptus species, Eucalyptus deanei provides important habitat and food sources for various native Australian wildlife. The flowers attract nectar-feeding birds and insects, while the leaves are a food source for koalas and other marsupials.
- Utilization: Blue Gum has been used for various purposes. Its wood is highly valued for its durability and strength, making it suitable for construction, furniture, and flooring. The tree has also been cultivated in plantations for timber production.
