Northern grey ironbark (Eucalyptus siderophloia, Fl. Austral. 3: 220 (1867))

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: Fl. Austral. 3: 220 (1867)

Year: 1867

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Eucalyptus

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Australia

Description

The Northern grey ironbark, known scientifically as Eucalyptus siderophloia, is a resilient and towering species of tree notable for its hardiness and adaptive qualities. This robust plant belongs to the Myrtaceae family, a widely distributed family of highly aromatic flowering plants.

First described by botanist George Bentham in the year 1867 in his comprehensive work Flora Australiensis (Volume 3, Page 220), Eucalyptus siderophloia has since garnered recognition for its significant presence and ecological role in Eastern Australia. These trees are specifically adapted to thrive in the diverse and occasionally challenging environments of this region.

Northern grey ironbark is easily distinguishable by its dark, furrowed bark which is tough and deeply embedded; a feature that not only contributes to its name but also provides protection against frequent bushfires characteristic of its native environment. The leaves of this tree are typically lanceolate, dark green, and glossy, contributing to a dense canopy that offers ample shade and habitat for various wildlife species.

Aside from its formidable physical presence, Eucalyptus siderophloia plays an essential role in its ecosystem. It serves as a critical source of nectar for various pollinators, including bees and birds, throughout the year. Moreover, as a hardy species, it contributes to the stabilization of soils and aids in the recovery of forested areas after disturbances like fires and logging.

The timber of Northern grey ironbark is highly valued for its density and durability. It’s often used in heavy construction, railway sleepers, and flooring, where strength and resistance to decay are paramount. This utilization underscores the species’ importance not only ecologically but also economically.

Overall, the Northern grey ironbark exemplifies the remarkable adaptability and resilience of the Eucalyptus genus, embodying both ecological and utilitarian significance in its native Australian habitat.

Common Names

Eng: black ironbark, broad-leafed-ironbark, grey ironbark, grey-ironbark, ironbark, northern gray ironbark, northern grey ironbark, northern-grey-ironbark, red ironbark, red-ironbark-tree
Por: eucalipto
En: Northern grey ironbark, Red ironbark, Grey ironbark, Black ironbark, Northern gray ironbark, Broad-leaved Ironbark, Broad-leafed-ironbark, Grey-ironbark, Ironbark, Northern-grey-ironbark, Red-ironbark-tree
Pt: Eucalipto

Synonyms

• Eucalyptus decepta (Blakely)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Kenya (introduced)
• Uganda (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3176419)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:593357-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eucalyptus siderophloia Benth.)

Specifications

Growth