The identity of Eucalyptus virgata Sieb. ex Spreng.

Abstract

Eucalyptus virgata was validly published in 1827, but the name has not been in common usage for several decades. Its identity has been uncertain because the type lacks mature flower buds and fruits, and there was no description provided for bark or habit. The current availability of numerous images of the type has allowed a careful examination of salient characters, and E. virgata is thought to be conspecific with E. oreades R.T.Baker, or possibly E. dendromorpha (Blakely) L.A.S.Johnson & Blaxell. Morphological comparisons are made with other related species that have been attributed to E. virgata over the years.