Eucalyptus polybractea

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Eucalyptus polybractea habit

Eucalyptus polybractea buds

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Eucalyptus polybractea leaf

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Eucalyptus polybractea
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Scientific classification
Missing taxonomy template ([//en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?action=edit&title=Template:taxonomy/Eucalyptus&preload=Template:Taxonomy/preload fix]):	Eucalyptus
Species	Template:Taxonomy/Eucalyptus E. polybractea
colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Binomial name
Template:Taxonomy/Eucalyptus Eucalyptus polybractea R.T.Baker

Eucalyptus polybractea, commonly known as the Blue-leaved Mallee or Blue Mallee, is a species of mallee that is endemic to Australia. It is notable for its high cineole content in its essential oil, which is used in various medicinal and industrial applications.

Description

Eucalyptus polybractea is a mallee that typically grows to a height of 4-10 meters and forms a lignotuber. The bark is smooth, grey to brownish, and sheds in ribbons. The leaves are a distinctive bluish-green color, which gives the tree its common name. The adult leaves are lance-shaped, measuring 5-10 cm long and 1-2 cm wide.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is found in the semi-arid regions of New South Wales and Victoria. It grows in mallee shrubland on sandy-loam soils, often in association with other Eucalyptus species.

Ecology

Eucalyptus polybractea plays a significant role in its ecosystem, providing habitat and food for various fauna including insects, birds, and marsupials. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, are white and attract a variety of pollinators.

Uses

The essential oil extracted from the leaves of Eucalyptus polybractea is rich in cineole, also known as eucalyptol. This oil is used in pharmaceuticals, aromatherapy, and as a natural insect repellent. The wood is also used for firewood and charcoal production.

Conservation Status

According to the IUCN Red List, Eucalyptus polybractea is classified as Least Concern due to its wide distribution and stable population.

Related Pages

• Eucalyptus
• Mallee
• Cineole
• New South Wales
• Victoria (Australia)