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The Cajeput tree—A boon and an affliction

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Abstract

The cajeput tree, native from Australia through Burma, is planted in forestry projects, for reclamation of swamps, and as an ornamental in warm climates; often escapes and invades vast areas of low land. The hard wood is durable underground and under water; checks and warps unless slowly seasoned, but is handsome when finished and prized for cabinetwork. The bark, chemically similar to cork, has many uses. Cajeput oil, obtained from the leaves, is in limited pharmaceutical demand, being more costly than oil of eucalyptus. Formerly acclaimed as an “antiseptic” tree, “subduing malarial vapors,” the cajeput has become in Florida a prime respiratory irritant. Since the pollen is not airborne, the irritant factor is apparently the volatile properly. Florida beekeepers, previously in opposition to the spread of the nectar-rich cajeput because of the unpleasant odor and taste of the honey, now have found it valuable for brood-rearing and salable after standing and blending.

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  1. Morton Collectanea, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

    Julia F. Morton (Director)

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Morton, J.F. The Cajeput tree—A boon and an affliction. Econ Bot 20, 31–39 (1966). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02861924

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