MYRTACEAE

n/a

Tree to 25 m high, open crown of dull olive-green leaves. Grey, fibrous-flaky ‘box’ bark with whitish patches, smooth upper branches. White flowers, Feb-Jun. Long-lived, moderate growth rate.

Grassy woodland on moderately fertile loamy soils. Prefers heavy loamy soils. Tolerates alkaline soil, frost, wind, flooding, and drought. Prefers 300 – 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina.

Collect throughout the year, good crops may be irregular. Propagate from seed (±729 seeds/gram). Regenerates from seed in absence of weeds, during wet summers. Coppices vigorously and establishes well when direct seeded.

Medium-level windbreak cover, good shade. Useful for gully erosion control. Excellent habitat, flowers attract wildlife, hollows provide nesting/refuge. Very good fuelwood. Timber pale, durable, used for posts, poles, fencing, and construction. Ornamental for larger spaces. Leaves produce various dyes.