River peppermint facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River peppermint |
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| Eucalyptus elata, lining Northbourne Avenue, Canberra | |
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Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
elata
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| E. elata, field distribution | |
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The Eucalyptus elata, often called the river peppermint or river white gum, is a special tree. It grows only in eastern Australia. This tree has rough bark on its lower trunk and smooth bark higher up. It has long, green leaves, and its flower buds are green to yellow. When it blooms, it has white flowers. Its fruit looks like a small, round capsule.
Contents
What is a River Peppermint?
The river peppermint is usually a tall tree, growing up to 40 meters high. That's like a 13-story building! Sometimes, it can be a smaller, bushy plant called a mallee, growing to about 6 meters.
Its lower trunk has dark grey bark that feels rough and has small cracks. The bark on the upper part of the tree and its branches is smooth. This smooth bark peels off in long strips, often staying in the tree's top branches. This leaves the trunk looking grey, cream, or white.
Leaves and Flowers
Young river peppermint plants have leaves that grow in pairs. These leaves are long and narrow, about 33 to 105 millimeters long. Adult leaves are a shiny green on both sides. They are also long and narrow, measuring 60 to 220 millimeters.
The tree's flower buds grow in groups of 11 to 30 or more. They are shaped like clubs and are about 2 to 4 millimeters long. The flowers are white and bloom from August to December. After flowering, the tree produces woody, round fruits. These fruits are 3 to 5 millimeters long.
Where River Peppermint Grows
River peppermint trees usually grow near rivers and streams. You can also find them in hilly areas, on rocky ridges, or on slopes in forests. They grow along the coast and nearby tablelands. Their range stretches from Putty in New South Wales down to eastern Victoria.
Why This Tree is Important
River Peppermint in Gardens
People often plant E. elata in gardens and along streets. It's a popular choice because of its beautiful smooth bark and bright green leaves. It also has many white flowers that grow in round clusters, making it very pretty.
Special Oils from Leaves
The leaves of the river peppermint have a special oil inside them. This oil has been collected and used in the past. It contains a substance called piperitone, which is used to make other things.
See also
In Spanish: Menta piperita de río para niños
