Southern Alpine Ash.
The Alpine Ash (Eucalyptus delegatensis) tree located in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens has delighted visitors for many years. No one is quite sure about its age but it is thought that it was planted around 1885. The massive tree has a real presence and dominates the area near the alpine gardens.
Once known as Eucalyptus gigantea, the Alpine or Mountain Ash is one of the tallest members of the eucalyptus family and in its native state grows in the mountains of Tasmania and in the Australian Alps between Melbourne and Canberra.
This particular specimen is a giant. Eucalyptus delgatensis is the tallest growing eucalyptus in New Zealand. It can tower to over 40 metres. Unlike most eucalypts, the Alpine Ash is frost hardy and can endure temperatures of minus 12 to 14 degrees. The timber bears a slight resemblance to pale-coloured European Ash, hence its common name.
A hard wood, it is easy to work and stain but difficulties have been experienced here with drying and seasoning as the timber has a tendency to split. The timber is still used in pulp production.
Vital statistics:
Height: 30 metres
Crown spread: 31 metres
Trunk diameter: 3.64 metres
