Family: Myrtaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Eucalyptus dunnii, commonly known as Dunn’s white gum, is native to eastern Australia, particularly in coastal regions of New South Wales and Queensland. It is a fast-growing evergreen tree that can reach impressive heights, with a straight trunk, smooth pale bark that sheds in patches, and a broad canopy of glossy green leaves. This species thrives in warm, moist climates and is well adapted to a range of soil types. Dunn’s white gum is widely planted in forestry and agroforestry systems for its high-quality timber, which is used for construction, poles, and pulpwood. It is also valued as a windbreak and for reforestation projects due to its rapid growth and ability to establish quickly.

Risks & Threats:
Dunn’s white gum is considered low risk in Hawaii and similar regions, as it has not shown strong invasive tendencies. While it can grow vigorously under favorable conditions, it generally does not spread aggressively or form dense, self-sustaining wild populations. As with many eucalyptus species, there is some potential for increased fire risk due to the presence of flammable oils in its leaves and bark, and leaf litter may suppress understory plant growth. However, these impacts are typically localized and manageable. With proper planting and maintenance, Eucalyptus dunnii can be a useful and relatively low-risk tree for forestry and landscaping purposes.

High Risk Traits:

• Grown in tropical/subtropical climates
  
• History of repeated introductions outside native range
  
• Congeneric weeds exist (E. populnea, E. pilularis, etc.)
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil conditions
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Hybridizes naturally with other Eucalyptus species
  
• Self-compatible (capable of inbreeding)
  
• Propagules dispersed intentionally by people
  
• Propagules adapted to wind dispersal
  
• Coppices well (tolerates mutilation)

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of naturalization
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Shy seeder with light, irregular seed production
  
• No evidence of vegetative fragmentation
  
• Propagules not dispersed unintentionally, by water, birds, or animals