Under Bluegums
... or, as I used to joke with my kids, glue-bums.
This is a quick photo essay of the so-called ‘forest’ of Eucalyptus trees behind us. It is dead to everything else, though, such is their defensive nature.
Some info: No blue gum trees, i.e., Eucalyptus trees, are indigenous to South Africa, yet we have about 300 species growing here. Six are classified as invasive.
Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, with 934 species in total. These hardwoods are valued for many reasons, not the least being that the beekeeping industry cannot survive without them, and without honey bees, most crops cannot be pollinated. So that’s a thing!
The key’s tag reads: ‘Bluegum Forest’. ‘Forest’ should rather read ‘Plantation’.
Lots of opportunities for minimalistic abstracts.
The bark reminds me of cinnamon sticks.
Not a multiple exposure, but a reflection in my ‘office’ window.
Sometimes the leaves glisten like fairy lights.
Below, I’m using the video function on my camera for the first time. It’s an anti-climax, so no need to wait for the end.. 😅
Textures
Plenty of source material!
The problem with bluegums, apart from the incredible amount of water they suck up per day, is that nothing grows underneath them. They don’t enjoy competition. Oh, and they’re a serious fire hazard!
