🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Eucalyptus obliqua is primarily a large timber tree, useful for construction and firewood. The essential oils can be extracted for medicinal and cleaning purposes, although not as commonly as other Eucalyptus species. It provides habitat and shelter for wildlife, particularly birds and insects. Its deep roots can help stabilize soil on slopes.
Permapeople description
Eucalyptus obliqua, commonly known as messmate stringybark or messmate, is a common eucalyptus tree of southeastern Australia.
Botanical description
Eucalyptus obliqua is a large evergreen tree typically reaching heights of 30-90 meters, sometimes exceeding 100 meters. It has a thick, fibrous, stringy bark that is grey to brown in color and persists on the trunk and larger branches. The juvenile leaves are ovate to lanceolate, while adult leaves are lanceolate to falcate, 8-25 cm long and 1.5-3 cm wide, and dull green. The flowers are white, borne in clusters of 7-15. The fruit is a cup-shaped capsule, 6-10 mm long and 5-8 mm wide.
Companion planting
Eucalyptus obliqua is a dominant species in its native ecosystems. Its allelopathic effects can inhibit the growth of some understory plants. However, it supports a wide range of native fauna and can be planted with other Australian natives adapted to similar conditions, such as acacias and banksias. Avoid planting near water pipes or septic systems due to the tree's extensive root system.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically from seed. Cuttings can be difficult but are sometimes successful with juvenile growth. Grafting is also possible, but less common.
History and traditions
Eucalyptus obliqua was one of the first Eucalyptus species described, named by Charles Louis L'Héritier de Brutelles in 1788. Indigenous Australians have traditionally used the bark for shelter and the wood for tools and weapons. The tree has been a valuable source of timber for building and fuel in Australia since European settlement.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs from January to May. Seed collection is best done in late summer and autumn. Planting is generally done in winter or early spring.