Botanical Name
Eucalyptus ‘Olida’
Common Name
Strawberry Gum
Description
Eucalyptus olida is a small to medium-sized native Australian tree prized for its strongly aromatic leaves, which release a sweet, fruity scent reminiscent of fresh strawberries when crushed. It typically grows 6–12 metres tall, may grow larger with age, and forms a dense, rounded canopy. The leaves are glossy green, lance-shaped, and rich in essential oils, making them popular for bushfood spices and herbal teas. Creamy-white flowers appear in clusters, usually from late summer to early autumn, attracting native pollinators such as bees and birds. The bark is rough and fibrous at the base, becoming smoother on upper branches. Strawberry Gum is widely valued not only for its ornamental appeal but also for its culinary and aromatic uses.
Plant Category
Trees
Size (H x W)
6-15 m × 5-10 m
Habitat
Eucalyptus olida naturally occurs in the tablelands of northern New South Wales, where it grows in cool-climate open forests and woodland margins. It prefers well-drained, fertile soils and areas with reliable rainfall, thriving in sites that receive full sun and good air circulation. This species is well adapted to cooler conditions and tolerates light frosts, making it suited to elevated inland regions with crisp winters and mild summers.
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