Exploring the rich history and biology of eucalypts
The Australian eucalyptus species is the subject of a new book by internationally recognised scientist Professor Stephen Hopper AC.
Professor Hopper (The University of Western Australia’s School of Biological Sciences) is a world leader in botany and conservation biology. He has been researching eucalypts for 50 years.
His book reaches into the history, biology and cultural significance of the eucalypts and Indigenous knowledge systems to better understand how we can help preserve these magnificent trees amid a challenging future.
It explores the richness of all 900 species, from Tasmania’s mighty stringy gum, (Eucalyptus regnans), one of the planet’s tallest flowering plants, to tiny mallees growing like bonsai on ancient WA granite outcrops. All but 12 of the 900 species are found only in Australia.
Professor Hopper, a Park Ambassador, writes in the final chapter of Eucalyptus: “The world today cannot survive without eucalypts. Their utility is unquestionable, for beekeepers or the pharmacy, the timber yard or the trade in fine furniture. Wherever wood, oil and nectar products have been needed from fast-growing, herbivore-resistant trees, eucalypts have been planted.”
Eucalyptus was launched recently at events in Albany and Perth and is available for online purchase.
Professor Stephen Hopper, Image credit: University of WA
