There is nothing more quintessentially Australian than a towering Eucalypt – on National Eucalypt Day we celebrated species from all corners.

The Eucalypt dominates the Australian landscape, covering some 101 million hectares of this wide brown land. To celebrate the magnificence of this imposing gum there’s an annual day – March 23 – to mark the occasion.

So, what exactly are we celebrating?  The Eucalyptus tree, in its many spectacular forms, holds great environmental significance. Their rapid growth means they absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is good news for climate change, while their large size means they absorb large volumes of water from the soil – particularly helpful for those living in flood-prone areas. The Eucalypt also supports biodiversity, offers a habitat for native wildlife, and comes in a variety of uniquely beautiful forms, from the Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia Ficifolia) to the majestic Sydney Red Gum (Angophora Costata).

But while their species and numbers are vast (there are 840 different species that call Australia home), it’s still important to do our bit to preserve these natural Australian icons. At Landcare SA, we’re committed to protecting and restoring eucalypt habitats through conservation, revegetation and community-led projects.

This year, the beauty and many environmental benefits of the Eucalypt were celebrated at National Eucalypt Day events around the country.  

For more information, visit www.eucalyptaustralia.org.au