Scrub poison tree facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Scrub poison tree |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Excoecaria
|
| Species: |
dallachyana
|
| Synonyms | |
|
Excoecaria agallocha var. dallachiana Baill. |
|
The Excoecaria dallachyana, often called the scrub poison tree or brush poison tree, is a type of plant. It belongs to the spurge family, known as Euphorbiaceae. This tree grows in Australia, from the Clarence River in New South Wales up to Townsville in Queensland.
You can find the scrub poison tree in rainforest areas, especially near streams. It also grows in drier kinds of rainforests. This tree is quite slender and can grow up to 15 meters (about 49 feet) tall. Its leaves are not safe for animals to eat, and the sap from the tree can irritate human skin.
Contents
What is the Scrub Poison Tree?
The scrub poison tree is a fascinating plant from the spurge family. This family includes many different plants, from small herbs to large trees. Many plants in the spurge family have a milky sap, which can sometimes be irritating.
Where Does This Tree Grow?
This tree is native to Australia. It lives in the eastern parts of the country. You can find it in the warm, wet rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales. It likes places where there is plenty of water, often growing close to rivers and streams.
Rainforest Homes
Rainforests are special places with lots of rain and many different plants and animals. The scrub poison tree fits right into these busy environments. It prefers the damp, shady conditions that rainforests offer. Sometimes, it can also be found in rainforests that are a bit drier.
Why is it Called a Poison Tree?
The common names "scrub poison tree" and "brush poison tree" come from its natural defenses. The tree has parts that can cause irritation or harm if touched or eaten.
Understanding the Tree's Sap
The sap of the Excoecaria dallachyana is a milky liquid that comes out if the tree is cut or broken. This sap can cause skin irritation for people. If it gets on your skin, it might make it itchy or red. It's always a good idea to be careful around plants you don't know.
Leaves and Livestock
The leaves of this tree are not safe for animals to eat. If farm animals like cattle or sheep eat the leaves, it can make them sick. This is why farmers need to be aware of where these trees grow, especially in areas where livestock graze.
How Tall Can It Grow?
The scrub poison tree is a medium-sized tree. It usually grows to be about 15 meters tall. To give you an idea, 15 meters is roughly the height of a four-story building. It has a slender trunk, meaning it's not very wide.
Images for kids
-
A close-up view of the Excoecaria dallachyana tree.
