Sugargum (Eucalyptus cladocalyx, Linnaea 25: 388 (1853))

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: F.Muell.

Bibliography: Linnaea 25: 388 (1853)

Year: 1853

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Eucalyptus

Vegetable: False

Observations: South Australia

Description

Sugargum, known scientifically as Eucalyptus cladocalyx, is a distinctive species of flowering plant belonging to the Myrtaceae family. First described by botanist Ferdinand von Mueller in 1853, this species is indigenous to South Australia.

Eucalyptus cladocalyx typically thrives in areas with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The tree is recognized for its adaptability to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.

A remarkable feature of the Sugargum is its smooth, mottled bark, which peels away in strips to reveal a range of tones from cream to greyish-brown, contributing a striking aesthetic to the landscape. This tree can reach impressive heights, often growing between 20 to 35 meters (65 to 115 feet).

The leaves of the Sugargum are lance-shaped and rich in aromatic oils, which are often extracted for their antibacterial and antiseptic properties. During its blooming period, the Sugargum produces abundant clusters of creamy white flowers, which are a magnet for bees and other pollinators. These flowers subsequently give way to woody fruit capsules containing numerous small seeds, which are dispersed primarily by wind.

In addition to its ecological value, Eucalyptus cladocalyx is prized for its timber. The wood is dense, durable, and resistant to termites, making it an excellent choice for construction, flooring, and furniture. Moreover, the tree’s rapid growth and resilience to drought conditions have made it a popular choice for reforestation projects and as a windbreak in agricultural settings.

The cultural significance and utility of the Sugargum extend beyond its native habitat. It has been planted in other regions of the world where similar climatic conditions prevail, helping to combat soil erosion and provide cover for native fauna.

Overall, the Sugargum is a versatile and valuable species, celebrated for its beauty, utility, and ecological benefits. Its successful cultivation in various parts of the world stands as a testament to its remarkable adaptability and enduring appeal.

Common Names

Eng: sugargum, sugar gum, sugar-gum, sugar-gum-tree
Por: eucalipto
Afr: suikerbloekom
En: Sugargum, Sugar gum, Sugar-gum, Sugar-gum-tree
Af: Suikerbloekom
Pt: Eucalipto

Synonyms

• Eucalyptus corynocalyx (F.Muell.)
• Eucalyptus langii (Maiden & Blakely)

Distribution

• South Australia (native)
• California (introduced)
• Cape Provinces (introduced)
• Hawaii (introduced)
• Kenya (introduced)
• Morocco (introduced)
• Tanzania (introduced)
• Trinidad-Tobago (introduced)

Additional Images

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

Bark

Taken Jul 25, 2020 by K L (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3176313)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:592800-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eucalyptus cladocalyx F.Muell.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Tree

Growth