Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta) is a medium sized eucalypt with rough bark, growing on poorly drained sites mainly along the coastal plain in our local government area.
Keystone plant species
Many trees are flowering profusely at the moment and the nectar is being gorged by numerous lorikeets and some honeyeaters. It is a primary food tree for the endangered koala and at this time of the year birdwatchers and ecologists are looking to find the critically endangered birds, Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater feeding on the flowers. And at night these flowering trees are sought after by Flying Foxes. For these reasons it is considered a keystone plant species.
Great option for regenerating local areas
The plant community in which it commonly grows (Swamp Sclerophyll Forest) is an endangered ecological community in NSW because much of its habitat has been cleared for farming and urban development. Many trees can be observed at Calwalla Reserve in Port Macquarie, in Lake Innes Nature Reserve and Queens Lake State Conservation Area on the northern side of Houston Mitchell Drive. It is suitable for planting in parks and in shelter belts and is commonly available at the Port Macquarie Landcare Nursery. Swamp Mahogany is often chosen for revegetating disturbed bushland which can offer safe habitat and movement corridors for koalas..
Landcare nursery
Port Macquarie Landcare Nursery has swamp mahogany for sale. Learn more about the nursery at www.landcareportmac.com.au
