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Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a genus of flowering plants in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae), comprising more than 700 species of trees and some shrubs.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Eucalyptus is a genus of flowering plants in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae), comprising more than 700 species of trees and some shrubs. Most species are native to Australia, including Tasmania, and nearby islands. Many species are widely cultivated in temperate and subtropical regions around the world.

Taxonomy and naming

Eucalyptus is a genus within the family Myrtaceae. In common usage, the word "eucalypt" may also include several related genera such as Corymbia and Angophora.

Description

Species in the genus are generally evergreen trees with aromatic leaves and woody fruits. While most are trees, some grow as mallees or shrubs.

Distribution and habitat

The genus is native primarily to Australia, including Tasmania, and nearby islands. Many species have been introduced widely in temperate and subtropical regions around the world.

Uses

Eucalyptus species are cultivated for timber, pulp, oil, gums, resins, shade, and ornamental planting. Some species are important in forestry and have been used in windbreaks and erosion control.

Key facts

  • Eucalyptus is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae.
  • Most species are native to Australia, especially Australia and Tasmania, with some also found on nearby islands.
  • The plants are usually trees, though some are mallees or shrubs.
  • Many species are widely planted outside their native range in forestry and landscaping.
  • Eucalyptus wood, oil, resin, and gum have economic uses.
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Canadian context

Eucalyptus is not native to Canada, but some species are grown as ornamentals in greenhouses or in mild coastal areas, and eucalyptus oil is sold and used in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae, mostly trees native to Australia and nearby islands.
How many species of eucalyptus are there?
There are more than 700 species in the genus Eucalyptus.
Where do eucalyptus trees grow naturally?
They are native mainly to Australia, including Tasmania, and nearby islands.
Are all eucalyptus plants trees?
No. Most are trees, but some are mallees or shrubs.
What are eucalyptus trees used for?
They are used for timber, pulp, oils, resins, ornamentals, and in forestry and land management.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/Eucalyptus
    Supports: Genus, family, native range, number of species, cultivation, and uses
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus
    Supports: Species count, family, growth forms, and common names
  3. Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eucalyptus
    Supports: Definition, growth form, and common uses
  4. Global Biodiversity Information Facility — https://www.gbif.org/species/100343042
    Supports: Taxonomic genus and distribution