Eucalyptus brandiana (Eucalyptus brandiana)
Description
The Square-fruited Mallet is a small upright tree growing to about 5 m.It has smooth bark and a trunk that is unusually square when juvenile.Its leaves are very large (20 cm long and 5 cm wide),thick and rigid and are a dark,glossy-green with a well-defined mid-rib.The form and foliage, combined with its bright red buds and large fruit are attractive features of this tree...Flowers: Flowers appear in the leaf axils and take several months to develop.When nearing maturity they are an attractive feature—bright red and square-shaped with prominent ‘wings’ at each corner.The operculum (bud cap) is a pyramid shape and when it falls it reveals many long bright pink stamens forming the flower.The fruits are large,attractive and winged. ,,,Growing conditions: This is a tree from the south coast on free-draining soils,so a well-drained site is advisable.E.brandiana prefers a sunny open position,but can tolerate some shade.It should be planted in late autumn to early winter when rains are expected. ,,,Watering: Water well at the time of planting and monitor the moisture in the soil during the first winter and spring.Ensure the tree has a deep watering twice a week in the first summer and into the following autumn until rains return.Once established it should only require supplementary watering during extended dry periods. ,,,,Pruning: As this is a small tree with an upright habit it should not require pruning. ,,,Fertiliser: Apply 8-9 month slow-release fertiliser at time of planting and thereafter annually if necessary for the soil-type. ,,,Pests and diseases: This species can be susceptible to scale
Taxonomic tree
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Domain: Eukarya
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Kingdom: Plantae
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Phylum:
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Class: Magnoliopsida
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Order: Myrtales
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Family: Myrtaceae
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Genus: Eucalyptus
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