Eucalyptus crebra

Eucalyptus crebra · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Eucalyptus crebra, commonly known as the narrow-leaved red gum, is a resilient tree native to the eastern regions of Australia. This species is particularly valued for its distinct foliage, which serves as a primary source for various botanical extractions. The leaves of the plant contain concentrated aromatic compounds that are highly sought after in many industries. Through careful distillation, these leaves are processed to produce high-quality essential oils. These oils are frequently utilized in aromatherapy and natural wellness applications due to their potent properties.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Eucalyptus Racemosa Var. Longiflora
Common names
Not available
Family
Myrtaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Leaf

Classification

Common Names

Eucalyptus crebra is a distinguished species widely recognized by several different common names. It is most frequently referred to as the Narrow-leaved Ironbark or the Narrow Leaved Ironbark depending on regional spelling preferences. In certain botanical circles, it is also known as the Narrow-leaved Red Ironbark to highlight its distinct coloration. Beyond English nomenclature, the plant is identified in various contexts as eucalipto or eucalipto-crebra. Understanding these diverse names is essential for accurate identification and study of this unique tree.

Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)

Synonyms

Eucalyptus crebra is a botanical subject frequently encountered under various alternative names in scientific literature. It is formally recognized by the synonym Eucalyptus racemosa var. longiflora, a designation that highlights its taxonomic complexities. Additionally, the plant has been historically associated with the synonym Metrosideros salicifolia in certain older records. Navigating these overlapping classifications is essential for researchers seeking to maintain accuracy in plant identification. Understanding these relationships ensures that botanical data remains consistent across different studies and collections.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Eucalyptus crebra is a remarkable member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the diverse beauty of the natural world. This species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the expansive genus Eucalyptus. Within its botanical lineage, it is situated in the order Myrtales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary history. Furthermore, it is a distinguished representative of the Myrtaceae family, sharing characteristics with many other aromatic plants. By understanding these specific classifications, one gains a deeper appreciation for the complex biological identity of this tree.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Myrtales
Family Myrtaceae
Genus Eucalyptus

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Eucalyptus crebra exhibits a broad and diverse geographical range spanning across several continents. In Africa, this species is primarily distributed throughout East Tropical Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its presence extends into the Asian continent, where it can be found within the temperate regions of Southeast China. Additionally, the plant thrives across the tropical landscapes of the Indian Subcontinent in India. This wide distribution highlights the plant's remarkable ability to adapt to various ecological niches.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Eucalyptus crebra is a distinctive self-supporting tree that plays a significant role in its ecosystem. This species typically exhibits a robust growth form, allowing it to stand firmly within its habitat. As it matures, the tree reaches impressive proportions, generally maintaining a height of at least 20 m. Many specimens grow even taller, frequently exceeding a minimum height of 27.5 m. Ultimately, this tree can reach a maximum height of 35 m, making it a prominent feature of the landscape.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Conditions

Preparations

Eucalyptus crebra is prepared as essential oils through the process of hydrodistillation using its leaves. This extraction method allows researchers to analyze the specific chemical makeup of the plant's oils. In this particular study, the essential oil from E. crebra was found to contain 27 distinct chemical compounds. These components contribute to the overall profile of the species within the broader context of Eucalyptus medicinal research. The resulting oils are evaluated to understand their potential chemical characteristics and biological properties.

Parts used

Eucalyptus crebra is one of the seven species studied to determine the chemical properties of essential oils. In this research, the essential oils were specifically extracted from the leaves of the plant through a process of hydrodistillation. The analysis revealed that the leaf extracts of E. crebra contained a diverse profile of 27 distinct chemical compounds. These components contribute to the overall medicinal potential that makes the Eucalyptus genus so highly regarded globally. By studying these specific leaf extracts, researchers can better understand the plant's capacity for antimicrobial and antioxidant applications.