úelem

úelem is a genus of trees in the family Myrtaceae, native to Australia. The genus was first described in 1889 by Ferdinand von Mueller. The name úelem is derived from an Aboriginal word for one of the species.

These trees are typically found in coastal areas and rainforests of eastern Australia. They are known for their distinctive bark, which can be smooth and powdery or rough and fibrous depending on the species. The leaves are usually opposite and ovate, with a glossy surface. The flowers are typically white or cream-colored and are borne in clusters. They are followed by small, woody capsules that contain numerous seeds.

There are currently three recognized species in the genus úelem: úelem australiense, úelem glabra, and úelem reticulata. Úelem australiense is the most widespread species, found from Queensland to Victoria. Úelem glabra is found in northern New South Wales and southern Queensland, while úelem reticulata is restricted to a small area of northern New South Wales.

Some species of úelem have been used by Indigenous Australians for medicinal purposes. The bark has been used to treat skin conditions, and the leaves have been used to make a tea that is believed to have antiseptic properties. The wood of úelem trees is also used for timber, although it is not as widely used as some other Australian hardwoods.