Overview
Eucalyptus tetragona (R. Br.) F. Muell. is a species of small to medium-sized tree in the genus Eucalyptus. It is native to Western Australia, particularly in the southwestern region of the state. The plant is notable for its unique appearance and useful properties.
Common Names
Eucalyptus tetragona is known by several common names, including Square-fruited Moort, Square-fruited Marlock, Square-fruited Mallee, and Black Bud Mallee. The name "moort" is derived from the Noongar Aboriginal language, which is spoken in the southwest region of Western Australia.
Appearance
The Eucalyptus tetragona grows up to 6 meters in height and has a crown width of 3-4 meters. The plant has a rounded shape and has several branches that originate from the base. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 20cm in length, and are a dull blue-green color. The flowers are white, pink or yellow and bloom in the summer months. The most distinctive feature of Eucalyptus tetragona is its unique fruit, which is square-shaped and black in color, measuring up to 10mm across.
Uses
Eucalyptus tetragona has several uses. The plant's essential oil, extracted from the leaves and twigs, has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and is commonly used in aromatherapy. The oil is also used in the production of cough drops, lozenges, and toothpaste. The wood of the plant is used to make firewood, charcoal, and fence posts, and the plant itself is used in landscaping due to its ornamental value and unique appearance.
Light Requirements
Eucalyptus tetragona requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. It cannot tolerate shade and needs direct sunlight for the majority of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the southwest of Western Australia and needs a warm and dry climate to grow. It can tolerate high temperatures up to 40°C but may not grow well in areas with high humidity. Eucalyptus tetragona can tolerate occasional frost of up to -2°C, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers soils that are well-drained and slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. Eucalyptus tetragona can tolerate nutrient-poor soils, and it is adapted to grow on sandy soils with low water-holding capacity. The plant requires a soil that has good aeration to allow for optimal root growth and development.
Cultivation
Eucalyptus tetragona (R. Br.) F. Muell., is a species that is pretty easy to cultivate. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in both well-drained and poorly drained soils.
Ensure that you grow the plant in full sunlight and in a location that is protected from strong winds. When planting, space the plants at a distance of at least 3 to 5 meters apart to allow for proper growth and development.
Watering Needs
During the early stages of growth, Eucalyptus tetragona requires regular watering to help establish the root system. However, once the plant is established, it becomes relatively drought-tolerant and requires low to moderate watering.
Water the plant deeply, once every week, during periods of low rainfall. Ensure that the soil is well-drained before watering to prevent waterlogging as it can cause root rot
Fertilization
Eucalyptus tetragona is a fast-growing plant and requires a lot of nutrients to support its growth. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer is recommended, which should be applied once every six months.
Fertilize the plant during the growing season (spring-summer) to encourage proper growth. Avoid fertilizing during winter as the plant is dormant and doesn't require a lot of nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Eucalyptus tetragona, especially if you're growing it for ornamental purposes. However, pruning can be done to remove diseased, broken, or damaged branches.
Pruning should be done during the early stages of growth, preferably within the first three years. After that, the plant develops a strong framework, and pruning is not required.
Propagation of Eucalyptus Tetragona
Eucalyptus tetragona (R. Br.) F. Muell., commonly known as the square-fruited mallee, is a shrub or small tree native to Western Australia. It is a member of the Myrtaceae family and is commonly grown for its ornamental foliage and attractive flowers.
Propagating Eucalyptus Tetragona
Eucalyptus tetragona can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Eucalyptus tetragona can be propagated by seed, which is collected from mature capsules that have split open. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining sandy potting mix and kept at a constant temperature of 20-25°C. Germination typically takes 2-4 weeks. The seedlings should be kept in a warm, bright location and transplanted to individual pots once they have developed several true leaves.
Cutting Propagation
Eucalyptus tetragona can also be propagated by cuttings, which should be taken from young, healthy shoots. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken in spring or early summer and treated with a rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid location with bright, indirect light until they have rooted. Once rooted, they can be transplanted to individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Eucalyptus tetragona
Eucalyptus tetragona (R. Br.) F. Muell. is a species of eucalyptus commonly known as the square-fruited mallee. As with any plant, it is vulnerable to a number of diseases and pests. Here are some of the common problems that can affect Eucalyptus tetragona and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora is a fungus-like pathogen that causes root rot. Symptoms include stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage this disease, it is important to maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Using fungicides may also be necessary.
Canker: Canker is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes lesions on the bark and branches of a tree. Infected areas may become sunken or discoloured. To manage canker, remove infected branches and disinfect pruning tools between cuts. Applying a fungicide or bactericide may also help.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. These spots may be tan or brown and often have a reddish-purple border. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide may also be necessary.
Common Pests
Lerp psyllids: Lerp psyllids are small insects that feed on the sap of eucalyptus trees. Their feeding can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage lerp psyllids, introduce natural predators such as lacewings and lady beetles or use insecticidal soaps or oils.
Borers: Borers are beetles or moths that lay their eggs on the bark of a tree. The larvae then tunnel into the wood, causing damage and weakening the tree. To manage borers, inspect trees regularly for signs of infestation and remove and destroy any affected wood. Applying insecticides may also help.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the bark of a tree and feed on its sap. They often secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract other pests. To manage scale insects, introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps or use insecticidal soaps or oils.
By being vigilant and taking prompt action to manage diseases and pests, it is possible to keep Eucalyptus tetragona healthy and thriving.
