Contents
Description
Eucalyptus Obliqua, commonly known as Messmate, is the most common tree in Tasmania, a state in Australia. It is a tall and straight tree that can grow up to 90 meters in height and 2 meters in diameter. The bark of Eucalyptus Obliqua is rough and persistent, with a grey to brown color. Its leaves are lance-shaped, leathery, and dark green in color. The flowers of Eucalyptus Obliqua are white and grow in clusters. Its fruits are woody capsules that contain numerous small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Eucalyptus |
Appearance
Eucalyptus Obliqua is a tall and straight tree with a rough and persistent bark. Its leaves are lance-shaped, leathery, and dark green in color. The flowers of Eucalyptus Obliqua are white and grow in clusters. Its fruits are woody capsules that contain numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Eucalyptus Obliqua requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Once established, it can tolerate drought.Fertilization: Eucalyptus Obliqua requires minimal fertilization, as it is adapted to nutrient-poor soils. However, if the soil is particularly poor, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied.Soil: Eucalyptus Obliqua prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay.Sunlight: Eucalyptus Obliqua prefers full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Eucalyptus Obliqua is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eucalyptus Obliqua is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Myrtle Rust: Myrtle Rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of Eucalyptus Obliqua. Symptoms include yellow spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and fall off.Leaf Spot: Leaf Spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Eucalyptus Obliqua. Symptoms include brown spots on the leaves, which can merge and cause defoliation.Borers: Borers are insects that bore into the bark and wood of Eucalyptus Obliqua, causing damage and weakening the tree.
Habitat
Eucalyptus Obliqua is native to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. It is commonly found in wet forests and woodlands, especially on hillsides and ridges.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eucalyptus Obliqua an evergreen tree?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus Obliqua is an evergreen tree.Q: Can Eucalyptus Obliqua tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus Obliqua can tolerate drought once established.Q: Is Eucalyptus Obliqua susceptible to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus Obliqua is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including Myrtle Rust and Borers.Q: What is the height and diameter of Eucalyptus Obliqua?
A: Eucalyptus Obliqua can grow up to 90 meters in height and 2 meters in diameter.
Related Plants
Other related plants in the Eucalyptus genus include:- Eucalyptus Globulus- Eucalyptus Camaldulensis- Eucalyptus Radiata- Eucalyptus Citriodora
References
– Australian National Botanic Gardens. (n.d.). Eucalyptus obliqua. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2012/eucalyptus-obliqua.html- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Eucalyptus obliqua. https://eol.org/pages/1156551- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. (n.d.). Eucalyptus obliqua. https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/eucalyptus-obliqua
