Kingdom Plantae Family Myrtaceae Rank Species | Order Myrtales Genus Eucalyptus | |
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Similar Eucalyptus angophoroides, Eucalyptus cretata, Eucalyptus dura, Eucalyptus copulans, Eucalyptus chapmaniana | ||
Eucalyptus denticulata, the Errinundra shining gum, is a eucalyptus tree native to the forests of East Gippsland, Victoria in the far south-eastern Australia. It may also be seen in adjacent areas in the state of New South Wales.
A tall to very tall tree, it is often seen around 50 metres (160 ft) in height, although exceptional specimens may reach 90 metres (300 ft). The habitat is moist montane areas on fertile soils, often on the edge of gullies and rainforest margins. This species may be seen in and near Errinundra National Park.
The type specimen was collected on March 3, 1989, at an altitude of 1,140 metres (3,740 ft) above sea level, at Errinundra National Park. Previously this species was considered an informal variant of Eucalyptus nitens, the shining gum.
The specific epithet denticulata is derived from Latin, referring to the finely toothed leaves. This is an unusual feature in the eucalyptus group, as almost all species have smooth edged leaves. The uneven leaf margins may be a defence against herbivores.
Description
Eucalyptus denticulata is a large fast growing forest tree. The base of the tree is somewhat flanged or slightly buttressed. Bark often sheds in long ribbons. Above the hanging bark at the base of the tree, the trunk is smooth and cylindrical; grey, white or creamish yellow.
The juvenile leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem; heart shaped, or almost round to broad lanceolate. They are a dull green colour. The adult leaves are lanceolate or narrow lanceolate; 15 to 30 centimetres (5.9 to 11.8 in) long, 1.5 to 3 centimetres (0.59 to 1.18 in) wide, not opposite on the stem. The same glossy colour green above as below. Leaf edges are irregularly toothed and have marginal glands.
The flowers form in groups of seven. The gumnut is 5 to 8 millimetres (0.20 to 0.31 in) long, and 5 to 7 millimetres (0.20 to 0.28 in) in diameter. The valves are long enough to reach or extend out of the rim of the gumnut.