Description
Eucalyptus yoo-kuh-LIP-tuhs
The Eucalyptus is a genus of over 700 species of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae. They are native to Australia, including Tasmania, and nearby islands. They are often called gum trees or stringybark trees. Most Eucalyptus species are trees, while some are shrubs. Eucalyptus leaves are typically leathery and evergreen, often hanging obliquely or vertically. They contain oil glands that give off a distinctive aroma when crushed.
Eucalyptus oil, extracted from the leaves, is widely used for its medicinal and therapeutic properties.
