Tree of the Month - July 2024
This ancient giant, over 150 years old and towering more than 20 metres high, is a vital part of the ecosystem, providing numerous hollows and habitats for a range of wildlife. With an estimated amenity value of around half a million dollars, its importance goes beyond its impressive stature.
This tree, also known as the ribbon gum or white gum, is considered "Rare" in South Australia and is predominantly found in the Southern Lofty region. Manna Gums are renowned for their rapid growth and height. They shed long ribbons of bark that drape the branches, giving the tree its distinctive appearance.
The name "Manna" refers to the sugary substance that seeps from the bark, attracting koalas and birds that relish its high sugar and nectar content.
What makes the Manna Gum particularly fascinating is its resilience. After a fire, it can regenerate from seeds, epicormic shoots, and lignotubers, making it well-suited to the Australian landscape.
Efforts to preserve this natural wonder include historic understory halo planting with native plants, which has significantly improved the tree's health and provided additional protection against damage.
