Eucalyptus brandiana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eucalyptus brandiana |
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Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
brandiana
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Eucalyptus brandiana is a special type of Eucalyptus tree, often called a mallet. It grows only in a small area of the Fitzgerald River National Park in Western Australia. This unique tree has smooth, shiny silver bark and bright green leaves. Its flowers are pink, and they grow from red, square-shaped buds.
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About the Brandiana Mallet
Eucalyptus brandiana is a type of mallet tree. This means it grows tall and straight, up to 5 metres (16 ft) (about 16 feet) high. Unlike some other eucalypts, it doesn't have a special woody lump at its base called a lignotuber. This means it can't regrow from its base if the main trunk is damaged.
What it Looks Like
This tree has very smooth, shiny bark that is silver-grey. It peels off in strips, making the trunk look sleek.
Leaves and Flowers
When the plant is young, its leaves are reddish-green and oval-shaped. They are about 90–110 mm (3.5–4.3 in) (3.5 to 4.3 inches) long. As the tree gets older, its adult leaves become glossy green and shaped like a spear. These leaves are much bigger, about 140–240 mm (5.5–9.4 in) (5.5 to 9.4 inches) long.
The flower buds are quite striking. They are red and have a square shape with clear "wings" on them. These buds are large, about 50–65 mm (2.0–2.6 in) (2 to 2.5 inches) long. They grow by themselves where the leaf meets the stem. The top part of the bud, called the operculum, is red and shaped like a pyramid.
When the flowers open, they are a lovely pink color. This usually happens in late winter and spring. After the flowers, the tree produces woody fruits. These fruits are shaped like a short oval and hang downwards. They are also quite large, about 56–68 mm (2.2–2.7 in) (2.2 to 2.7 inches) long, and have those same clear wings as the buds.
Naming the Brandiana Mallet
Eucalyptus brandiana was officially named by two scientists, Stephen Hopper and Nathan K. McQuoid. They wrote about it in a science journal called Australian Systematic Botany. They found the first samples of this tree near the Fitzgerald River Inlet.
The second part of its name, brandiana, was chosen to honor Grady Brand. He was the curator (the person in charge of the collections) at the Western Australian Botanic Garden, Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
Sometimes, Eucalyptus brandiana can naturally mix its genes with another type of eucalyptus called Eucalyptus arborella. When this happens, they create a new plant that has features from both parents. This is called a hybrid.
Where the Brandiana Mallet Lives
This special mallet tree grows on hills and steep slopes made of a rock called spongolite. You can find it near the Fitzgerald River Inlet in Western Australia.
Other plants that often grow in the same area include:
Protecting the Brandiana Mallet
The Western Australian Government's Department of Parks and Wildlife has given Eucalyptus brandiana a special status: "Priority Two". This means that not much is known about this plant, and it has only been found in one or a few places. Because it's so rare and special, it needs to be protected to make sure it continues to thrive.
