Marri

Marri is the common name for Eucalyptus calophylla, a tall evergreen tree native to the southwest of Western Australia. It is one of the region’s best-known eucalyptus species and belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. The tree typically grows to about 25–40 meters, with a robust trunk and a spreading canopy. The lower trunk often bears rough, dark-brown bark that can persist onto the trunk, while the upper trunk and limbs become smoother and paler. Leaves are glossy green and lanceolate; adult leaves are usually 7–20 cm long on short petioles.

Marri flowers from winter to spring, producing large clusters of creamy-white to pale yellow blossoms that are rich in nectar. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including birds and insects. The fruits are woody capsules, cup-shaped or urn-shaped, characteristic of many eucalyptus species.

In its native range, marri occurs across southwestern Western Australia, especially in higher-rainfall zones and within jarrah forest ecosystems. It tolerates a range of soils but often favors moist, well-drained sites. The wood is a dense, durable hardwood used locally for heavy construction, flooring, and general timber work, and the tree is valued for shade and ornamental planting. Its nectar supports honey production and contributes to local ecosystem food webs. Marri stands are often part of broader eucalypt-dominated landscapes and can play a role in soil stabilization and habitat structure.