Eucalyptus wandoo, also known as the white gum, is a species of eucalyptus tree that is native to Western Australia. It is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height and up to 1 meter in diameter. Wandoo is highly valued for its timber, which is used in construction, furniture, and flooring. It is also a popular species for horticulture due to its attractive appearance and hardiness.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Eucalyptus |
Appearance
The bark of the wandoo tree is smooth and white or grey in color, shedding in long strips. The leaves are lance-shaped, up to 15 centimeters long and 2 centimeters wide, and are a glossy green color. The flowers are white and appear in clusters from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Wandoo trees are hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is important to water the tree regularly during the first few years of growth, but once established, it can tolerate periods of drought. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall using a balanced fertilizer. Wandoo trees are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wandoo trees are generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, they can be affected by eucalyptus gall wasp, which causes galls to form on the tree, and rust, which causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. These issues can be treated with insecticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
Wandoo trees are native to Western Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including dry sclerophyll forests, woodlands, and heathlands. They are often found on sandy or gravelly soils and are an important component of the ecosystem.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the growth rate of Eucalyptus wandoo?
A: Eucalyptus wandoo has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching a height of 6-10 meters in 10 years.
Q: Is Eucalyptus wandoo invasive?
A: No, Eucalyptus wandoo is not considered invasive in most areas where it is grown.
Q: Can Eucalyptus wandoo be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Eucalyptus wandoo in a container, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and will eventually outgrow the container.
Q: Can Eucalyptus wandoo be used for firewood?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus wandoo is a good species for firewood as it burns hot and produces little smoke.
Related Plants
- Eucalyptus camaldulensis
- Eucalyptus globulus
- Eucalyptus grandis
- Eucalyptus marginata
References
- “Eucalyptus wandoo.” Australian Plants Online. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/eucalyptus-wandoo.html
- “Eucalyptus wandoo.” PlantNET. Accessed 10 May 2021. http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/euctax.pl?/PlantNet/Euc=&name=Eucalyptus+wandoo
- “Eucalyptus wandoo.” Florabank. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Eucalyptus_wandoo.htm
