A comparison of long-term flowering patterns of Box-Ironbark species in Havelock and Rushworth forests

Abstract

Long-term records were used to compare the flowering of Eucalyptus microcarpa, E. melliodora, E. leucoxylon, E. polyanthemos and E. tricarpa between Havelock Forest (1940-1971) and Rushworth District (1945-1970). Indices were developed and used to compare the mean monthly annual flowering patterns (e.g., mean duration, annual flowering success) between the two locations. Additionally, the long-term flowering pattern of each species between 1945 and 1970 was examined for concordance. Results of the analysis suggest that despite the similarity of species composition there are differences in flowering behaviour. Flowering always commences and peaks at Rushworth prior to Havelock. The earlier co..