Fuchsia mallee facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fuchsia mallee |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
forrestiana
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| Synonyms | |
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Eucalyptus forrestiana Diels forrestiana |
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The Fuchsia Gum, also known as Fuchsia Mallee, is a special kind of small tree. Its scientific name is Eucalyptus forrestiana. This tree is found only in a small area near Esperance, in Western Australia.
It has smooth, grey bark and leaves that are long and narrow. Its flower buds are quite unique. They are square-shaped and turn bright red when they are ready to bloom. The flowers themselves are a cheerful yellow. After the flowers, the tree grows interesting four-sided fruits with wings.
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What the Fuchsia Gum Looks Like
The Fuchsia Gum is a small tree or a type of plant called a "mallet." A mallet is a tree that grows from a single stem and does not have a special woody swelling at its base (called a lignotuber). It usually grows to be about 1.5 to 6 meters tall.
This tree has smooth bark that is grey over a pale brown color. Its leaves form a thick, dark green top, which is called a canopy.
Leaves and Flowers
When the Fuchsia Gum is young, its leaves are dull grey-green. They are shaped like an egg or a spear, and they grow up to 10 centimeters long. As the tree gets older, the leaves become glossy green on both sides. These adult leaves are about 5.5 to 9.5 centimeters long.
The flower buds are very striking. They grow one by one where the leaves meet the stem. Each bud is red and shaped like a long rectangle. They are also square when you look at them from the end. Each corner of the bud has a narrow wing.
The Fuchsia Gum usually blooms from January to March or from April to June. Its flowers are bright yellow. After the flowers fade, the tree produces fruits that are similar in shape to the flower buds. They are about 3.5 to 5 centimeters long.
History and Naming
The Fuchsia Gum was first officially described in 1904. A botanist named Ludwig Diels wrote about it in a science journal. A botanist is a scientist who studies plants.
The tree's scientific name, forrestiana, was chosen to honor Sir John Forrest. He was a famous explorer and plant collector. Sir John Forrest later became the very first Premier of Western Australia. He was also a member of Australia's first national Parliament.
Where the Fuchsia Gum Grows
You can find the Fuchsia Gum in a specific part of Western Australia. It grows near salt lakes and on sandy plains. This area is close to the coast, between the towns of Ravensthorpe and Cape Arid National Park. You can also find it a bit further inland, near places like Mt. Nye. It prefers to grow in clay-sandy soils.
Conservation Status
The good news is that the Fuchsia Gum is not considered an endangered plant. The Western Australian Government's Department of Parks and Wildlife says it is "not threatened." This means there are enough of these trees growing in the wild.
How People Use the Fuchsia Gum
Because of its beautiful red buds and yellow flowers, the Fuchsia Gum is often planted as a small street tree. It is especially popular in areas that do not get a lot of rain, known as semi-arid regions. Its unique look makes it a great choice for gardens and public spaces.
