Eucalyptus sclerophylla facts for kids
The Scribbly gum (scientific name: Eucalyptus sclerophylla) is a special type of tree that grows in eastern Australia. It's known for its unique bark, which often has wiggly lines on it, almost like someone scribbled on it! This tree is very similar to another tree also called Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma), but there are a few ways to tell them apart.
Quick facts for kids Scribbly gum |
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| Scribbly gum at Lawson, New South Wales, Blue Mountains | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eucalyptus
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| Species: |
sclerophylla
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Contents
What Makes the Scribbly Gum Special?
The Scribbly gum gets its name from the interesting marks on its bark. These "scribbles" are actually tunnels made by tiny insect larvae, often from a moth. As the larvae grow, they munch their way through the bark, leaving behind these cool patterns.
The scientific name sclerophylla means "hard leaf." Both types of Scribbly gums have tough leaves, but the Eucalyptus sclerophylla's leaves are especially firm and have hard edges.
How to Tell it Apart
Even though it looks a lot like the other Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma), you can spot the Eucalyptus sclerophylla by looking closely at its gumnuts and flower buds.
- Its gumnuts are smaller, shaped like a half-sphere or a pear, and are about 0.6 cm by 0.6 cm in size.
- Its flower buds are also smaller than those of its close relative.
Where Does the Scribbly Gum Grow?
This tree likes to grow in places with poorer sandstone soils. It also prefers areas that get a medium to high amount of rainfall.
Around the city of Sydney, you can often find Scribbly gums on the higher ridges. The soil in these spots is usually drier and not as rich in nutrients. The tree's natural home stretches from Jervis Bay in the south, all the way north to the Watagan district, which is near Newcastle.
How to Spot One?
The Scribbly gum is usually a small to medium-sized tree. It can grow up to 20 meters tall, but you'll often see them around 6 meters high.
- Bark: It has smooth bark that peels off in patches, showing white or grey colors underneath. This is where you'll see the famous scribbles!
- Leaves: Its leaves are between 5 and 16 cm long and 2 to 4 cm wide. They are a shiny green color on both sides.
- Flowers: This tree produces beautiful white flowers. You can usually see these flowers blooming between November and February, which is during the Australian summer.
