Hmmm. I think this is a Sugar Gum Eucalyptus cladocalyx, native to several small, isolated areas in South Australia. Does this tree have a lot of oozing gum staining the ground dark brown around the base? If so this would also indicate it is a Sugar Gum.

The expanse of the root zone is probably roughly proportionate to its height. In the Flinders Ranges Sugar Gum grows to about 35 metres but it's smaller on Eyre Peninsula. It's also smaller on the north coast of Kangaroo Island where it's probably affected by its greater exposure to salt & sea winds. Outside its natural range it can develop into quite a tall tree.

Be wary of planting rows of this species because they cause wind speed to increase as the wind passes between the trees (known as Bernoulli's principle). This can result in soil erosion around the tree bases, particularly in places where there is poor quality & quantity of understorey.

Where is this tree, Paul?

Wow, you're very knowledgeable Woko. Thanks for your response, much appeciated

The tree is located in southern Victoria at Teesdale in the Golden Plains - about 25 mins west of Geelong. I haven't observed the ground closely as I'm not currently living there, but will do this when I head there later this week.

Would you by any chance be able to identify the species of the tree below. Unfortunately it's not a close up photo of the leaves.

Kind regards - Paul

Hi Paul. I should have asked if you know if the first tree you enquired about was planted or if it grows naturally on your property at Teesdale. If the latter then it's probably not a Sugar Gum since it would be outside its natural range.

The leaves & fruits look rather like Sugar Gum but the bark on the lower trunk of this tree doesn't match that of Sugar Gum. Is there a Landcare group or local council environment officer who could help you with identification?

Not having a close up of the second Eucalyptus makes it rather difficult to identify but my best guess is that it's a River Red Gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis. If you can provide a close up of leaves, trunk & seed capsules a possibly more accurate i.d. can be made.

I assume this tree is growing at Teesdale which is within the natural range of River Red Gum.

I think you're right Woko, the second tree is a River Red Gum. I've compared the gum nuts with images online and they match.

I don't know if the first tree was planted or is native to the area. It's actually on the neighbours property right on the fence line. I've taken a few more photos.

These additional photos are quite helpful in eliminating a Sugar Gum. The form of the tree & the bark indicate that it's not that species. Perhaps other folk might have ideas on the tree's identity.

Thank you. You know your stuff. I had to consult an arborist to ensure we chose the right slab type and they also determined it to be a sugar gum.

Looks like I'll need to trust my initial judgement!!!

Yes, absolutely Woko.