Bullet bush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bullet bush |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
× missilis
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The Bullet Bush (Eucalyptus × missilis) is a special type of eucalyptus plant. It only grows in a small area on the south coast of Western Australia. This plant has smooth bark and unique leaves. Its flowers are pale yellow, and its fruit looks like a cup or cylinder. Scientists believe it's a mix of two other eucalyptus species, E. cornuta and E. angulosa. These parent plants grow in the same area.
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What Does the Bullet Bush Look Like?
The Bullet Bush is a mallee, which means it's a type of eucalyptus that grows like a shrub with many stems. It usually grows up to 3 m (9.8 ft) (about 10 feet) tall. It has smooth, dull grey bark.
Leaves and Flowers
The adult leaves are shiny green on both sides. They are shaped like an egg or a spear, about 60–125 mm (2.4–4.9 in) (2.4-4.9 inches) long and 10–35 mm (0.39–1.38 in) (0.4-1.4 inches) wide. Each leaf has a small stem called a petiole.
The flower buds grow in groups of seven to fifteen. They are found where the leaves meet the stem. These buds are spindle-shaped, like a small missile, which is why the plant is called "bullet bush." Each bud is about 17–23 mm (0.67–0.91 in) (0.7-0.9 inches) long. When the flowers open, they are pale yellow.
Fruit
After flowering, the plant produces woody fruits. These fruits are shaped like a cup or cylinder. They are about 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) (0.4-0.6 inches) long.
How Was it Named?
The Bullet Bush, Eucalyptus × missilis, was first officially described in 2002. Two scientists, Ian Brooker and Stephen Hopper, gave it its scientific name. They found specimens of the plant near Cheyne Beach in 1983.
The second part of its scientific name, missilis, is a Latin word. It means "missile." This name was chosen because of the unique, missile-like shape of its flower buds. This is also why its common name is "bullet bush."
Where Does the Bullet Bush Grow?
This special mallee grows in coastal areas of Western Australia. You can find it between West Cape Howe and Cape Le Grand. It prefers to grow in sand that is on top of limestone or granite rock. It is often found growing alongside its parent species.
Is the Bullet Bush Protected?
Yes, the Bullet Bush is considered a plant that needs protection. The Government of Western Australia's Department of Parks and Wildlife has classified it as "Priority Four." This means that the plant is rare or nearly threatened, and efforts are made to protect it.
