Eucalyptus annettae facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eucalyptus annettae |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
annettae
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Eucalyptus annettae is a special type of Eucalyptus tree, also known as a mallet. It grows only in a small part of Western Australia, which means it's endemic to that area. This unique tree has rough, dark grey bark near the bottom of its trunk and smooth bark higher up. Its leaves are shaped like a spear, and its flower buds have ribs. The flowers are a pale yellow, and the fruits are shaped like cones with ridges.
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What is the Annett's Mallee?
Eucalyptus annettae is a tree that grows as a "mallet." This means it's a single-stemmed tree that doesn't have a big, woody base called a lignotuber. It can grow up to 8 m (30 ft) tall.
Bark and Leaves
The lower part of the tree's trunk has hard, thin, dark grey bark. Higher up, the bark is smooth and dull cream to grey. This smooth bark peels off in strips.
The adult leaves of the Annett's Mallee are shaped like a lance (a spearhead). They are about 90–130 mm (4–5 in) long and 23–50 mm (0.9–2 in) wide. When they first appear, they are dull and bluish, but they become shiny as they get older.
Flowers and Fruits
The flowers grow in groups of seven. They are found on a flattened, wide stem called a peduncle, which curves downwards. This stem is about 20–26 mm (0.8–1 in) long and 8–13 mm (0.3–0.5 in) wide.
The mature flower buds are waxy and about 14–16 mm (0.6–0.6 in) long. The base of the flower, called the floral cup, has ribs. The cap of the bud, known as the operculum, is shaped like a cone and is about 10 mm (0.4 in) long. The yellow parts inside the flower, which produce pollen, are called stamens.
After the flowers, the tree produces waxy, cone-shaped fruits. These fruits are called capsules and have ridges along their sides. They are about 12–17 mm (0.47–0.67 in) long and 14–20 mm (0.55–0.79 in) wide.
How Did It Get Its Name?
Eucalyptus annettae was officially described in 2012. Two scientists, Dean Nicolle and Malcolm French, gave it its name. They published their description in a scientific journal called Nuytsia.
The second part of its scientific name, annettae, was chosen to honor Annett Borner. She is the wife of one of the scientists who discovered and named the tree.
Where Does It Live?
This special tree is only found in a very small area. It grows near a place called Israelite Bay in Western Australia. It prefers to grow in areas with lots of shrubs, which is called shrubland.
Protecting This Unique Tree
The Western Australian Government's Department of Parks and Wildlife has classified Eucalyptus annettae as "Priority Two".
What Does "Priority Two" Mean?
Being "Priority Two" means that this tree is not very well known. It has only been found in one or a few locations. This classification helps scientists and conservationists keep an eye on the tree and protect its small habitat. It's important to protect unique species like the Annett's Mallee so they can continue to thrive.
