Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority - Eucalyptus desmondensis

Common name: Desmond mallee

Family: MYRTACEAE

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Origin of Scientific Name

Eucalyptus: eu (Greek), meaning well and calyptos (Greek), meaning covered referring to the cap which covers the developing flowers.

Desmondensis: meaning native to Mount Desmond, which is near Ravensthorpe in Western Australia.

Description

The Desmond mallee is found in the Ravensthorpe Range area in southern Western Australia, where it grows in slightly acid loamy sand over a clay base. This tree prefers light to medium soils but will grow in well-drained heavier soils.

The Desmond mallee can grow up to six metres in height, usually with multiple trunks and with an open foliage, drooping habit, especially at its crown.

This tree has decorative bark, foliage, flowers and fruits, and between January and August can produce an impressive display of bristly creamy-yellow flowers. It is equally impressive when in bud, with the bud caps boasting a deep red. Sweet nectar from the blooms attracts birds and insects.

Horticultural tips

Grows well in full sun positions but is not suitable as a shade tree due to its open habit.
Water until established, and then it can be left for extended periods without water.
This species can be ornamental in a small garden, and tolerates light frosts.

For more horticultural tips view our Plant Notes section.

View in Kings Park

Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden to see the Desmond mallee growing in the garden beds along Forrest Drive within the Western Australian Botanic Garden, opposite the Fire Fighters Memorial (refer to map).