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Abstract

Among the timber trees of this colony, a species of
Eucalyptus, popularly known as the "gum-topped stringy
bark," has long been familiar to saw mill proprietors and
splitters; but through some strange oversight on the part
of botanical collectors it has never hitherto been included in the Flora of Tasmania. Some two years ago, having been
asked by a friend to ascertain its botanical name, I found
that no tree answering its description had yet been scientifically
recognised; and I at once sought the aid of friends
in various parts of the island, requesting them to obtain
specimens in flower for identification, but without success.
In February last, I was fortunate enough to fall in with a
well-grown tree in full blossom, specimens of which were
forwarded to Baron Von Mueller with a result which will be
best described by quoting from a letter which he has kindly
forwarded me:
—"Your letter of 2nd April is before me concerning the
Hemiphloious stringy bark tree, and after your lucid remark
there can be no doubt that it is Eucal. haemastoma of Sir
James Smith, so that your circumspect exertions have been
rewarded by the discovery of a species of Eucalyptus new to
Tasmania. This species has latterly also been found in
Gippsland, and I have been able to study more fully its
characteristics. You could oblige me by noting the differences
of the timber (as opportunity occurs), and also of the
seedlings."

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Stephens, Thomas
Keywords:	Royal Society of Tasmania, Van Diemens Land, VDL, Hobart Town, natural sciences, proceedings, records
Journal or Publication Title:	Papers & Proceedings and Report of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Collections:	Royal Society Collection > Papers & Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Additional Information:	In 1843 the Horticultural and Botanical Society of Van Diemen's Land was founded and became the Royal Society of Van Diemen's Land for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science in 1844. In 1855 its name changed to Royal Society of Tasmania for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science. In 1911 the name was shortened to Royal Society of Tasmania.
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