Water Mallee

Eucalyptus dumosa

Physical Characteristics

Eucalyptus dumosa is an evergreen Tree growing to 7 m (23ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry moist or wet soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Australia - New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Manna Root Edible Uses: A sweet manna-like substance is produced upon the leaves of the tree, it is made into a delicious drink[183]. One report says that it is the secretion of an insect[2], and thus is unlikely to be produced in Britain[K]. The bark of young roots is baked and eaten. It is said to be rather sweet, resembling malt in flavour[144, 177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Citronellal, an essential oil found in most Eucalyptus species is reported to be mutagenic when used in isolation[269]. In large doses, oil of eucalyptus, like so many essential oils has caused fatalities from intestinal irritation[269]. Death is reported from ingestion of 4 - 24 ml of essential oils, but recoveries are also reported for the same amount[269]. Symptoms include gastroenteric burning and irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, oxygen deficiency, ,weakness, dizziness, stupor, difficult respiration, delirium, paralysis, convulsions, and death, usually due to respiratory failure[269].