Eucalyptus microcorys - Hardwood - Australian Tallowwood, Tallowwood Eucalyptus Page

Introducing Tallowwood, also known as Australian Tallowwood or Tallowwood Eucalyptus! This native Eucalypt species is commonly found in the coastal forests of New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. With a maximum height of 40 meters (occasionally reaching 70 meters), Tallowwood is a medium to tall evergreen tree that thrives in protected, sunny positions on moderate to fertile soils.

Tallowwood is characterized by its rough, stringy or fibrous red-brown, orange, or brown-grey bark. The tree boasts long and narrow adult lanceolate leaves, measuring 6 to 15 centimeters in length and 1.5 to 3.5 centimeters in width. These glossy green leaves have a dull green underside, with prominent side veins spaced greater than 45° from the leaf mid-rib.

Flowering occurs in the form of white to lemon-colored flowers usually located at the ends of branchlets in groups of 7 to 11 buds per umbel. The mature buds are small and club-shaped, measuring 0.3 to 0.6 centimeters in length and 0.2 to 0.3 centimeters in width. The obconical fruit, commonly referred to as "gum-nuts," is approximately 0.5 to 0.9 centimeters long and 0.4 to 0.6 centimeters wide, with 3 or 4 valves near the open-end rim.

Apart from its striking appearance, Tallowwood is valued for its strong, hard, and durable wood, which takes a good polish. Its natural oiliness and high tannin content make it ideal for decking and garden furniture, as well as for dyeing wool and silk. Additionally, Tallowwood is known for its significance to the local ecosystem, as it provides food for Koalas.

While Tallowwood offers many benefits, it should be noted that it is drought and frost tender. However, with proper care and a sunny position, this remarkable Eucalypt species can thrive in various settings. If you're looking for a versatile and visually appealing tree with commercial uses, Tallowwood is an excellent choice.

For more information on Tallowwood, please visit our website or consult reputable botanical sources.