Family:

Myrtaceae

Eucalyptus rossii

Scribbly Gum

Other Names: Inland Scribbly Gum, Snappy Gum, Snap Gum, White Gum.

First Nations Name(s):

Name Origin:

rossii — after W.J.C. Ross (1850-1914), teacher at Bathurst Technical College.

Common name refers to ‘scribbles’, a common bark feature.

Regional Subspecies:

Similar Species:

Sometimes confused with Brittle Gum (E. mannifera), but distinguished by its scribbly non- powdery bark, leaves and buds. One of five species known as Scribbly Gum due to insects feeding in the bark, although other four species not within region. They are: E. haemastoma, E. racemosa, E. sclerophylla and E. signata.

Occurrence:

Regional:

Noted in the areas: Carabost, Murraguldrie, Yaven Creek, Lunts Sugarloaf and Four Mile.

Australia:

NSW.

Habitat:

Dry sclerophyll woodland. Poor shallow stony soils on rises, and low ridges in undulating country.

Habit:

Tree to 20 m high with smooth white or yellow bark with scribbles, shedding in short ribbons. Dull grey-green leaves. Diameter at breast height up to 1 m.

Site Preference:

Well-drained soil. Tolerates frost.

Characteristics:

Scribbles in bark are left by insect larvae which burrow beneath bark.

Flowering:

Dec-Feb.

Propagation:

From seed (± 161 viable seeds per gram).

VALUES:

Shade & Shelter:

Useful medium-level cover in windbreaks.

Wildlife:

Nectar-rich flowers are a food source for various native birds.

Fuel:

Burns well.

Timber:

Brittle. Not durable or commercial.

Ornamental:

Attractive specimen for landscaping due to white trunk and spreading branches.