Eucalyptus is one of three similar genera that are commonly referred to as "eucalypts," the others being Corymbia and Angophora. Many, but far from all, are known as gum trees because many species exude copious sap from any break in the bark (e.g. Scribbly Gum). The generic name is derived from the Greek words , meaning "well," and (kalyptos), meaning well "covered," which refers to the operculum on the calyx that initially conceals the flower. Eucalyptus has attracted attention from global development researchers and environmentalists. It is a fast-growing source of wood, its oil can be used for cleaning and functions as a natural insecticide, and it is sometimes used to drain swamps and thereby reduce the risk of malaria. Outside their natural ranges, eucalypts are both lauded for their beneficial economic impact on poor populations and derided for being invasive water-suckers, leading to controversy over their total impact.
the eucalyptus group
Eucalyptus is a tree. The dried leaves and oil are used to make medicine. Eucalyptus leaf is used for infections, fever, upset stomach, and to help loosen coughs. The leaf is also used for treating respiratory tract infections, whooping cough, asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis, osteoarthritis, joint pain (rheumatism), acne, wounds, poorly healing ulcers, burns, bacterial dysentery, ringworms, liver and gallbladder problems, loss of appetite, and cancer. Eucalyptus leaves contain tannins (which are believed to help reduce inflammation), flavonoids (such as quercetin, which has antioxidant properties), and volatile oils. Eucalyptus oil should not be taken by mouth or applied to the skin full-strength. It must be diluted for safety. n manufacturing, eucalyptus oil is used as a fragrance in perfumes and cosmetics. It is also used as a mouthwash, antiseptic, liniment and ointment, and in toothpaste, cough drops, and gum lozenges. There are many species of eucalyptus. Some are the size of an ornamental shrub, and some grow to be giant trees. The type of eucalyptus that is most often used medicinally is called blue gum or Australian fever tree.
In dentistry, eucalyptus oil is included in products used as sealers and solvents for root canal fillings. In foods, dried eucalyptus leaf is used as a flavoring agent.
eucalyptus with hairy red leaves - lumps are psyllids and the other damage is from the gum leaf skeletoniser. some grey bumps on the back of dead leaves. the psyllid insect is inside the lump only systemic insecticides work. remove the leaves and destroy them. Get rid of them before they hatch. the skeletoniser recommends Maldison, Malathion or Malathon. Aparently there has been a plague of skeletonisers in different regions . They are ugly hairy catapillers. Be careful touching them. Can cause a reaction and make you itch
coppice a Eucalyptus - Formative pruning, coppicing and pollarding of eucalyptus are best carried out in late winter to early spring (February to March), just before plants are actively in growth. Coppicing and pollarding are best initiated early in the life of the tree, rather than used on over large or damaged mature trees, which may or may not regenerate in response. * To coppice a eucalyptus, cut back the trunk or branches to 5-7.5cm (2-3in) above the ground or to the stubs left the previous year. * When pollarding a eucalyptus, cut back to stubs on the main trunk, usually 2m (6ft) high.
