Tall and fragrant, eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, and nearby islands. There are more than 500 types of eucalypti, and some of them rank among the largest trees in the world. Eucalypti are sometimes known as gum trees or stringy bark trees.

Where eucalypti grow

Eucalypti are most numerous in Australia and the surrounding area, but they are also grown in other mild regions around the world. Various types of eucalyptus trees can be found in South America, southern Europe, northern Africa, and California in the United States.

Physical features

Some eucalyptus trees only grow to about 30 feet (9 meters) in height, but many are much taller. The giant gum tree of Australia reaches more than 300 feet (90 meters) in height. Its trunk measures about 25 feet (7.6 meters) around.

Eucalypti have long, slender, leathery leaves. Their color is dull or dark green. Eucalyptus flowers are small. They come in various colors, including creamy white, yellow, and shades of red. The fruit is surrounded by a rounded, woody capsule that has seeds inside.

Uses

The leaves of some eucalyptus trees contain an oil that is used in medicines, cough drops, and other products. The wood is also used for a number of purposes, including for firewood and fences, in pulp for paper, and in construction. The koala, a small Australian mammal, eats certain types of eucalyptus leaves and shoots as its main food.