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Description
Eucalyptus Pilularis, commonly known as Blackbutt or Coastal Blackbutt, is a species of tall tree found in the coastal regions of eastern Australia. It can reach heights of up to 50 meters and has a straight trunk with smooth, pale grey bark that sheds in long strips. The leaves are lance-shaped and a glossy green color. The species is known for its hard, durable wood, which is used for construction, flooring, and furniture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Eucalyptus |
Appearance
Eucalyptus Pilularis is a tall, straight tree with smooth bark and glossy green leaves. The bark sheds in strips, revealing a pale grey surface underneath. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 20 centimeters long. The tree produces white flowers in the summer.
Care Guide
Eucalyptus Pilularis is a low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this species:
- Water: The tree is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization.
- Soil: The tree can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eucalyptus Pilularis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Termites: The tree’s hard wood is attractive to termites.
- Leaf Spot: The tree can be affected by fungal leaf spot diseases.
- Scale Insects: The tree can be affected by scale insects, which can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves.
Habitat
Eucalyptus Pilularis is native to the coastal regions of eastern Australia, where it grows in sandy soils and near swamps and rivers. The tree is often found in open forests and woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eucalyptus Pilularis an invasive species?
A: No, Eucalyptus Pilularis is not considered an invasive species in its native range.
Q: Can Eucalyptus Pilularis be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow Eucalyptus Pilularis in containers, as the tree can grow to be very large and has an extensive root system.
Q: Can Eucalyptus Pilularis be used for firewood?
A: Yes, the hard wood of Eucalyptus Pilularis makes it an excellent source of firewood.
Q: Is Eucalyptus Pilularis a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus Pilularis is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of up to 1 meter per year under optimal conditions.
Related Plants
- Eucalyptus Globulus
- Eucalyptus Grandis
- Eucalyptus Saligna
References
- “Eucalyptus pilularis.” PlantNET. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Eucalyptus~pilularis
- “Eucalyptus pilularis.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/e-pil.html
- “Eucalyptus pilularis.” Florabank. https://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Eucalyptus_pilularis.htm
