General Description: One of the most widespread and variable eucalypts in Victoria. This seed is collected from lovely spreading trees, to about 20 m, which have large branches to a low level. Bark is rough and persistent at the base of the trunk The remaining trunk and branches have smooth, white to yellowish bark, peeling in ribbons which can often be seen hanging in the canopy.
Flowers and Fruit: White flowers from January to May, peaking February to March. Wineglass-shaped fruit often in 3’s on very short stalks and have a broad, raised rim and 3 or 4 protruding valves.
Site Preference and Tolerances: Prefers moist, well-drained alluvial soils near watercourses but also occurs on drier sites at higher levels.
Life Span: Long-lived (80+ years)
Wildlife Value: Leaves are favoured by koalas. Old trees provide valuable nesting sites. Possums and gliders are attracted to the gum and the flowers attract honeyeaters.
Other Values and Uses: An attractive specimen tree with white upper trunk and drooping foliage suitable for parks, roadsides and avenues. An excellent large shade tree. Provides useful but fast burning fuel. Timber produced is light pink to pale yellow in colour with a straight grain and medium strength, the timber is used for building frames, flooring, panelling, joinery and pulp for container board.
Aborigines used the sugary, white sap (manna) that oozes through tiny holes bored by insects on the twigs, by gathering it when it fell to the ground and eating it. Wood was fashioned into shields and drinking vessels were formed from burls on trunks. Long, thin, older leaves were smoked over the fire to reduce fevers.
Other Common Names: Ribbon Gum, Ribbony Gum
Germination Information: Can be propagated easily from seed and will direct seed well if weeds are controlled. Usually germinates in 2-5 weeks.