Queensland grey gum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grey gum |
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| Eucalyptus major near Clifton | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
major
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| Synonyms | |
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Eucalyptus propinqua var. major Maiden |
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The Grey Gum (scientific name: Eucalyptus major) is a special type of tree. It is only found in a small area near the border between New South Wales and Queensland in Australia. This tree is known for its smooth, greyish bark. It also has long, thin adult leaves, flower buds that grow in groups of seven, and fruit shaped like cones or cups.
Contents
What is the Grey Gum Like?
The Grey Gum is a tall tree. It can grow up to 20 meters (about 65 feet) high. It has smooth bark that is grey and often looks blotchy. This bark peels off in large pieces.
Leaves and Flowers
Young Grey Gum plants have egg-shaped leaves. These leaves are lighter green on the bottom. They are about 7.5 to 10 centimeters (3 to 4 inches) long.
Older trees have different leaves. Their adult leaves are shaped like a spear, or slightly curved. They are dark green on top and lighter underneath. These leaves can be 9 to 20 centimeters (3.5 to 8 inches) long. They have a stem called a petiole that connects them to the branch.
The tree's flower buds grow in groups of seven. They are found where the leaves meet the stem. Each group of buds sits on a flat stalk about 0.7 to 1.5 centimeters (0.3 to 0.6 inches) long. The buds themselves are oval or diamond-shaped. They are about 0.6 to 0.9 centimeters (0.2 to 0.35 inches) long. When the buds open, they reveal white flowers. These flowers have been seen blooming in November.
Fruit
After the flowers, the tree produces fruit. The fruit is a woody capsule. It is shaped like a cone or a cup. These fruits are about 0.3 to 0.5 centimeters (0.1 to 0.2 inches) long. They are 0.4 to 0.8 centimeters (0.15 to 0.3 inches) wide. The parts that hold the seeds stick out noticeably from the top of the fruit.
How Did it Get its Name?
The Grey Gum was first described in 1923 by a scientist named Joseph Maiden. He first called it Eucalyptus propinqua var. major. Later, in 1934, another scientist, William Blakely, changed its name to Eucalyptus major. The word major comes from Latin. It means "greater" or "larger."
Where Does the Grey Gum Grow?
The Grey Gum lives in tall forests. You can find it in areas along the coast and on nearby hills. It grows in southeastern Queensland, starting from the Blackdown Tableland. It also grows as far south as the very northern part of New South Wales.
Is the Grey Gum Protected?
In Queensland, the Grey Gum is listed as "least concern." This means it is not currently at high risk of disappearing. The Queensland Government's Nature Conservation Act 1992 protects it.
