Eucalyptus
Stephen D. HopperUncovers the rich natural history, biology and cultural significance of eucalypts.
Eucalypts, iconic to Australia, have shaped art, science and landscapes worldwide. With around nine hundred species, from towering giants to compact mallees, these trees inspire awe and curiosity. Their hardwood has driven industries, sparked protests and even toppled governments. Their aromatic leaves hold healing properties yet fuel devastating wildfires.
This book blends Aboriginal knowledge and Western science to uncover the rich natural history, biology and conservation of eucalypts. It explores their evolution, cultural significance and surprising roles in modern life, offering insights into sustainable ways to coexist with these remarkable trees. Featuring stunning photographs from fifty years of fieldwork, this is the first comprehensive review of Aboriginal eucalypt wisdom, paired with cutting-edge scientific discoveries.
Uncovers the rich natural history, biology and cultural significance of eucalypts.
Eucalypts, iconic to Australia, have shaped art, science and landscapes worldwide. With around nine hundred species, from towering giants to compact mallees, these trees inspire awe and curiosity. Their hardwood has driven industries, sparked protests and even toppled governments. Their aromatic leaves hold healing properties yet fuel devastating wildfires.
This book blends Aboriginal knowledge and Western science to uncover the rich natural history, biology and conservation of eucalypts. It explores their evolution, cultural significance and surprising roles in modern life, offering insights into sustainable ways to coexist with these remarkable trees. Featuring stunning photographs from fifty years of fieldwork, this is the first comprehensive review of Aboriginal eucalypt wisdom, paired with cutting-edge scientific discoveries.
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Having experienced Eucalyptus trees in their native Australian haunts, I fell in love with them and was intrigued by their diversity and beauty. This book on Eucalyptus provides the reader with a unique experience: wonderful descriptions of these amazing trees and bountiful information on their uses and cultural significance that are so important in the lives of Australian Aborigines. I enjoyed Stephen D. Hopper’s book immensely and highly recommend it to anyone interested in Australia and plants.’
'Mark W. Chase, Honorary Research Associate, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Foreword by Ron (Doc) Reynolds
Introduction
1.. Eucalypt Dreaming on Mainland Australia
2. Noongar Sacred Cosmology and Eucalypts in Southwest Australia
3. Tasmania, the European Naming of Eucalyptus and Palawa People
4. Modern Species, Subspecies and Hybrids
5. Distribution and Habitats
6. The Eucalypt Life Cycle
7. How Australia Made the Eucalypts
8. Cultivating Eucalypts Abroad and Modern Uses
9. Eucalypt Conservation
Epilogue
Timeline
References
Bibliography
Associations and Websites
Acknowledgements
Photo Acknowledgements
Index
Stephen D. Hopper is Professor of Biodiversity at the University of Western Australia, and was Director of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, between 2006 and 2012. His books include Life on the Rocks: The Art of Survival (with Philippa Nikulinsky, 2008).