Eucalyptus piperita
Eucalyptus piperita
Synonyms: Eucalyptus urceolaris, Eucalyptus aromatica, Eucalyptus piperata, Eucalyptus piperita var. laxiflora, Eucalyptus bottii, Eucalyptus piperita subsp. urceolaris, Eucalyptus piperita var. eugenioides, Eucalyptus piperita var. brachycorys, Metrosideros aromatica, Eucalyptus scabra
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Eucalyptus piperita, commonly known as Sydney peppermint or peppermint gum, is a medium to tall tree in the family Myrtaceae endemic to the central and northern coasts and adjacent tablelands of New South Wales, Australia, growing on sandstone-derived sandy soils in dry sclerophyll forest. The tree typically reaches 15 to 25 metres in height with a straight trunk clad in rough, fibrous, finely furrowed grey-brown 'peppermint' bark to the smaller branches, the smallest twigs being smooth. Juvenile leaves are opposite, lanceolate to elliptic, and dull green, while adult leaves are alternate, narrow-lanceolate to falcate, 7 to 15 centimetres long and 1.5 to 3 centimetres wide, glossy green on both sides, with conspicuous oil glands releasing a strong peppermint-like aroma when crushed. White flowers are borne in axillary umbels of 7 to 15, each on a slender pedicel from a club-shaped bud with a hemispherical operculum, flowering mainly in summer. Fruits are hemispherical to slightly pear-shaped capsules 5 to 8 millimetres across.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.