Eucalyptus, Genus, crebra, Species,
- Genus & species
narrow-leaved red ironbark
Overview
Eucalyptus crebra is an evergreen tree in the family Myrtaceae, reaching 50-115 feet (15-35 m) tall with a straight trunk and an open, spreading crown. The bark is dark grey to black, hard, deeply furrowed, and held over the whole trunk and larger branches as a persistent ironbark. Adult leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, 2.5-6 inches (6-15 cm) long and about 0.3-0.6 inch (8-15 mm) wide, dull grey-green and hanging from the branches. Small white flowers about 0.3 inch (8 mm) across appear in branched clusters mainly from winter into spring, followed by small woody capsules 0.2-0.3 inch (5-7 mm) across. The species grows across eastern Australia, from Queensland through New South Wales, in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland on clay, loam, and gravelly soils, often on slopes and ridges. It withstands drought, heat, and moderate frost once established through a deep root system. The hard, dark-red timber is durable and used for posts, sleepers, and heavy construction. The flowers are a source of nectar for honey production. The roots range widely and the canopy is large, so the tree is planted well clear of buildings and paving. Shed bark and branches collect beneath the canopy.
Native Range
Eucalyptus crebra is native to eastern Australia, from Queensland through New South Wales into northern Victoria. It grows in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland on clay, loam, and gravelly soils, often on slopes and ridges in inland and subcoastal districts.Suggested Uses
Planted as a shade, shelter, and habitat tree in large rural and parkland settings. Used in revegetation, windbreaks, and farm forestry for its durable timber. The flowers support honey production and feed nectar-eating birds and insects.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height50' - 115'
Width/Spread30' - 50'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs mainly from winter into spring, around May to September in its native range, though timing varies between districts. Small white flowers form in branched clusters at the branch tips. Small woody capsules follow and persist on the tree.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
grey-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
