Eucalyptus general information and application

1. Eucalyptus general information

Eucalyptus is known as one of the tallest plant species on earth with more than 700 different species. Trees are native to Australia, and their habitats are mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of the region. However, today we can come across eucalyptus all over the world, the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, China, the Indian peninsula and even in Vietnam.

This species varies in size and shape from shrub to tall tree up to 60 meters. Trees usually have a single main stem or trunk but many eucalypts are mallees that are multistemmed from ground level and rarely taller than 10 meters.

All genera in this species add a new layer of bark every year and the outermost layer will peel off in large slabs, in ribbons or in small flakes. The natural tree life cycle can be more than 250 years in the wild. Industrial plantations can be harvested after 6 to 8 years.

2. Eucalyptus specification

Eucalyptus wood is very strong, high density, their harness even higher than white oak. Sapwood is pale cream color and the heartwood is red to reddish-brown.

Lumber is easy to process with hand tools or by machine. However, eucalyptus humidity is not stable when changing the environment. Like other natural wood, eucalyptus wood needs to be chemical impregnated, kiln-dry, as well as wood finishing before being used. Besides, after kiln-dry, it tends to shrink and warp. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully pack eucalyptus before shipping.

3. Eucalyptus application

Eucalyptus wood is widely used in many fields, from construction to furniture. Because eucalyptus wood is hard, it is difficult to bend. So they are often used for flat furniture such as tabletops, countertops.

This wood has many uses which have made them economically important trees. Because they are fast-growing and have valuable timber, or can be used for pulpwood, for honey production or essential oils.