Australian Tree Trunk Photo No. 5

(Click image to enlarge)

I always find the trunks of eucalyptus trees interesting. In 2017 I decided to photograph a few of them up close as abstracts. In 2025 I have added this fifth photograph to the series, which now contains six photographs. The others can be found at  1  2  3  4  6.

Unlike the previous photographs, this one does not remind me of anything else. I just like the pattern and colors.

This mountain ash tree is one of about 800 different species within the genus Eucalyptus that are found in Australia. The bark of all eucalyptus trees dies each year and eventually falls away. In smooth bark types the bark comes off in flakes, curls, or long strips as is the case with the tree shown here. Bark falling away from the trunk is seen at the left side of the photograph. In rough bark types it accumulates in entwined, stringy masses. This particular tree specie is commonly called mountain ash. It is a common Australian hardwood that is used for everything from flooring to furniture. Eucalyptus trees contain flammable oils which makes them burn with great intensity. These oils also create a beautiful smell in the forest when the air is damp.