Eucalyptus rodwayi facts for kids
The swamp peppermint (scientific name: Eucalyptus rodwayi) is a special kind of tree that only grows in Tasmania, an island state of Australia. It's a small to medium-sized tree, known for its rough bark and fresh, peppermint-like smell.
Quick facts for kids Swamp peppermint |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
rodwayi
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Contents
About the Swamp Peppermint Tree
The swamp peppermint tree usually grows up to 20 m (66 ft) (about 65 feet) tall. It has rough, greyish bark that can be stringy or flaky on its trunk and branches.
Leaves and Flowers
Young swamp peppermint plants have leaves that are shaped like a spear or an oval. These leaves are about 25–78 mm (0.98–3.07 in) (1-3 inches) long and 7–20 mm (0.28–0.79 in) (0.3-0.8 inches) wide.
As the tree grows, its adult leaves become glossy green on both sides. They are narrow and curved, measuring 50–135 mm (2.0–5.3 in) (2-5 inches) long and 7–20 mm (0.28–0.79 in) (0.3-0.8 inches) wide. Each leaf has a small stalk, called a petiole, which is about 5–15 mm (0.20–0.59 in) (0.2-0.6 inches) long.
The flowers of the swamp peppermint are white and bloom between December and March. The flower buds grow in groups of seven, nine, or eleven. Each group is on a short stalk, about 4–8 mm (0.16–0.31 in) (0.16-0.3 inches) long. The individual flowers also have tiny stalks, about 2–3 mm (0.079–0.118 in) (0.08-0.12 inches) long.
Fruit
After flowering, the tree produces fruit. These fruits are shaped like a cone or a half-sphere. They are about 2–5 mm (0.079–0.197 in) (0.08-0.2 inches) long and 4–6 mm (0.16–0.24 in) (0.16-0.24 inches) wide.
How it Got its Name
The swamp peppermint was first officially described in 1902. Two scientists, Richard Thomas Baker and Henry George Smith, wrote about it in their book.
The scientific name rodwayi was chosen to honor Leonard Rodway. He was a very important person who helped a lot with plant research in Tasmania.
Where Does it Grow?
Swamp peppermint trees like to grow in wet, poorly-drained areas. You can find them in valleys, from the central plateau all the way to the east coast of Tasmania.
