Eucalyptus camaldulensis
Other names: Red River Gum, Murray Red Gum, Eucalyptus Red River,
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
The Coastal Eucalyptus, also known as Red River Gum, Murray Red Gum or Eucalyptus Red River, is a tree native to Australia, specifically the area around the Murray River. It is a tree with flat, broad leaves and flowers that are characteristically light to white in colour. John Evangelista Purkyně discovered during his researches during the 19th century that the coastal blackthorn was a tree with the ability to use water efficiently and therefore recommended planting it in drier areas. For this reason, the coastal coneflower has spread to other parts of the world, including Europe and North America.
The coastal coneflower is particularly exploited for its wood, which is resistant to rot and lodging. This wood has a wide range of uses, particularly in the following sectors: construction, furniture, papermaking and also as fuel. The wood of the coastal blackthorn is also very popular with manufacturers of musical instruments because of its excellent acoustic properties. The wood is also used to make balsa, a light and strong wood used mainly in modelling. In addition, coastal coneflower is used in medicine, where its essential oil is known for its disinfectant and anti-inflammatory effects. Eucalyptus honey is also extracted from the coneflower, which is characterised by its delicate flavour and high mineral and antioxidant content.