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Description
Eucalyptus Mannifera, commonly known as Brittle Gum, is a tree species belonging to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to southeastern Australia and is widely grown in other parts of the world. Eucalyptus Mannifera is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 40 meters in height with a trunk diameter of 1.5 meters. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its attractive bark, foliage, and flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Eucalyptus |
| Species | Mannifera |
Appearance
Eucalyptus Mannifera has a distinctive appearance due to its rough, fibrous, and flaky bark that sheds in long ribbons. The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and green, measuring 10 to 17 centimeters long and 1.5 to 3 centimeters wide. The flowers are white, cream, or pink and appear in clusters from autumn to winter, measuring 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter. The fruit is a woody capsule, measuring 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in diameter, containing numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Eucalyptus Mannifera requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your tree healthy:- Water: Water your tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer to promote growth.- Soil: Plant your tree in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Eucalyptus Mannifera prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Eucalyptus Mannifera is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eucalyptus Mannifera is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Leaf spot: Caused by fungal infection, resulting in yellowing and dropping of leaves.- Gummosis: Caused by bacterial infection, resulting in oozing of sap and cankers on the bark.- Eucalyptus gall wasp: A pest that causes galls or swellings on leaves and stems.- Eucalyptus longhorned borer: A pest that causes damage to the trunk and branches.
Habitat
Eucalyptus Mannifera is native to southeastern Australia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. It prefers well-draining soils and a sunny position.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eucalyptus Mannifera a good shade tree?
A: Eucalyptus Mannifera is not a good shade tree as it prefers full sun and has an upright growth habit.
Q: Can Eucalyptus Mannifera be grown in a container?
A: Eucalyptus Mannifera can be grown in a large container but will require frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune my Eucalyptus Mannifera tree?
A: Prune your Eucalyptus Mannifera tree in winter to remove any dead or damaged branches and to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Eucalyptus Mannifera a fire-resistant tree?
A: Eucalyptus Mannifera is not fire-resistant but can regrow from its lignotuber after a fire.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Eucalyptus Mannifera:- Eucalyptus Globulus- Eucalyptus Citriodora- Eucalyptus Deglupta- Eucalyptus Camaldulensis
References
– “Eucalyptus mannifera.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp5/eucalyptus-mannifera.html- “Eucalyptus mannifera.” PlantNet. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Eucalyptus~mannifera
