Origin
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell., commonly known as Fissured Gum, is a species of small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the family Myrtaceae. The plant is native to Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Queensland.
Common Names
Aside from Fissured Gum, Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. is also known by various common names such as Moreton Bay ash, Queensland grey gum, and white-topped box.
General Appearance
The tree can grow up to 25 meters tall with a relatively straight trunk that measures around 40 cm in diameter. Its bark is textured with grayish-white to cream-colored patches, and the lower part of its trunk is deeply fissured. The leaves of the Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. are leathery, glossy, and around 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. Its flowers are white and bloom from late winter to summer. The fruit is a woody capsule that measures around 12 mm long and 8 mm in diameter.
Uses
The Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. tree is commonly used for ornamental and shade purposes in parks and gardens. It is also harvested for its lumber, which is used for construction, furniture, and pulpwood. The essential oils from the plant are also used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic production.
Light requirements
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. typically requires full sun and lots of direct light for optimal growth. In shaded conditions, the plant may grow more slowly and have weaker stems. It is important to ensure that the plant is not shaded by surrounding vegetation or structures.
Temperature requirements
The plant is native to Australia, where it experiences a range of temperatures. However, the typical growth conditions for Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. are warm, sunny climates. The plant is highly adaptable to different temperatures but grows best in a temperature range of 20-28°C (68-82°F). It can tolerate occasional frost but not long periods of very cold temperatures.
Soil requirements
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, but the soil must be well-draining to prevent waterlogging. It is important to ensure that the soil is not too alkaline or acidic, as this can affect the plant's growth. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell.
Cultivation Methods
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, clayey, and loamy soil. The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. depends on the age of the plant and the climatic conditions. Young plants require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather, to help establish their roots. Mature plants can tolerate periods of drought but still require periodic irrigation during the dry season.
Fertilization
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. responds well to fertilizer application. The plant requires nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for vigorous growth. Regular application of a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK, is recommended during the growing season to promote strong growth and development.
Pruning
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell. requires minimal pruning. It is recommended to remove dead or damaged branches as soon as they appear. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant as desired. This should be done during the dormant season to avoid damaging new growth.
Propagation of Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell.
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell., also known as the saltwater gum or Moreton Bay ash, is a species of eucalyptus native to eastern Australia. This species is known for its tolerance to salt spray and is often used for coastal plantings, erosion control, and reforestation projects. Here are some methods for propagating Eucalyptus tessellaris:
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most commonly used method for Eucalyptus tessellaris. The seeds are small and are produced in woody capsules. The best time to collect the seeds is when the capsules have dried on the tree but have not yet opened. The seeds can then be extracted by dehiscing the capsules and collected for propagation.
To germinate the seeds, they need to be cleaned and stored properly. The seeds can be stored at 3-5°C in a sealed container for up to six months. Before sowing, the seeds need to be soaked in water for 24 hours and then treated with hot water (80°C) for 5 to 15 minutes to break their dormancy. After scarifying, the seeds can be placed in fine sandy soil or a mixture of sand and peat moss to germinate.
Cuttings propagation
Eucalyptus tessellaris can also be propagated through cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is from autumn to spring. Softwood cuttings, semi-hardwood cuttings, and hardwood cuttings can all be used for propagation.
Softwood cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and treated with a rooting hormone. They can be planted in rooting media such as sand, perlite, or peat moss and kept under high humidity until roots form. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken from partially matured wood that is firm and woody at the base but still pliable at the tip. Hardwood cuttings should be taken from mature wood that is fully woody.
Layering propagation
Layering is a method of propagation where a stem is induced to root while still attached to the parent plant. This method can be used for Eucalyptus tessellaris, although it is not commonly used. To propagate through layering, a stem near the base of the tree is selected, and a notch is made in the bark. The stem is then bent down and held in place with a wire or stake. The notch is covered with soil or rooting media, and the stem is kept moist until roots form. Once roots have formed, the stem can be separated from the parent plant and replanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell.
Eucalyptus tessellaris F.Muell., also known as the Moreton Bay ash, is a popular ornamental tree that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Implementing proper disease and pest management practices is crucial to ensure the optimal growth and longevity of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect E. tessellaris is Myrtle Rust. Myrtle Rust can cause leaf spots, yellowing of leaves, and defoliation which can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases. The disease can spread quickly through the air, water, and by planting infected plant material.
Another disease that can affect E. tessellaris is Phytophthora root rot. This soil-borne fungus can cause significant damage to the roots, leading to wilting and death of the tree. Symptoms of Phytophthora root rot include yellowing, stunted growth, and root rot. This disease is mostly common in areas with poor drainage and in low-lying areas.
Disease Management
One of the most effective ways to manage Myrtle Rust is to ensure proper hygiene practices when handling plants. This includes cleaning and disinfecting all tools and equipment used in gardening activities. It is also important to avoid planting infected plant material. If infected plants are observed, they should be removed and destroyed immediately.
For Phytophthora root rot, improving the drainage of the soil is essential. Avoiding over-watering and providing proper aeration can also help to prevent this disease. Fungicides can also be used to treat affected plants, but it is advisable to seek advice from a specialist before using any fungicides.
Common Pests
E. tessellaris is susceptible to various pests, including the Eucalyptus Longhorned Borers. These pests can cause significant damage to the tree by boring tunnels into the trunk, leading to structural damage, and making the tree more susceptible to diseases.
Another common pest is the Eucalyptus Leaf-Feeding Beetle, which feeds on the leaves, causing defoliation and affecting the overall health of the tree.
Pest Management
To manage Eucalyptus Longhorned Borers and Eucalyptus Leaf-Feeding Beetles, proper sanitation practices should be implemented. This includes removing any dead plant material or waste around the tree. Ensuring tree health through proper watering and fertilization practices can also make the tree less susceptible to pests.
Chemical control methods can also be used, including insecticides and biological control methods, but it is recommended to seek the advice of a specialist before using any pesticides.
