Messmate: The Majestic Australian Giant for Large Landscapes
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a towering, stately tree that commands attention in your landscape, meet the messmate (Eucalyptus obliqua). This impressive Australian native is also known as messmate stringybark, and it’s exactly the kind of tree that makes neighbors stop and stare – for all the right reasons.
What Makes Messmate Special?
Messmate isn’t your average backyard tree. This eucalyptus species is a true giant, capable of reaching heights over 200 feet in its native habitat. What really sets it apart is its distinctive bark – imagine long, fibrous strips that peel away naturally, creating a textured, almost artistic appearance on the lower trunk, while the upper portions remain smooth and pale.
The leaves are classic eucalyptus: narrow, lance-shaped, and aromatic when crushed. During flowering season, messmate produces clusters of small white flowers that are absolute magnets for bees and other pollinators.
Where Does Messmate Come From?
Messmate calls southeastern Australia home, thriving naturally in Victoria, Tasmania, southeastern South Australia, and southeastern New South Wales. In these regions, it’s often found in mixed forests and can dominate the landscape with its impressive stature.
Should You Plant Messmate in Your Garden?
Here’s the honest truth: messmate isn’t for everyone or every space. Before you fall in love with this tree, consider these factors:
The Good Reasons to Choose Messmate
- Spectacular specimen tree that creates a dramatic focal point
- Excellent for large properties where you want to establish windbreaks
- Fantastic for erosion control on slopes
- Drought tolerant once established, making it suitable for Mediterranean-style landscapes
- Pollinator-friendly flowers support local bee populations
- Fast-growing, so you’ll see results relatively quickly
The Reality Check
Messmate requires serious space – we’re talking estate-sized properties. This isn’t a tree for suburban lots or small gardens. It also drops bark and leaves regularly, which means ongoing cleanup. Since it’s not native to North America, check with your local extension office about any planting restrictions in your area.
Growing Messmate Successfully
If you’ve got the space and the climate, here’s how to help your messmate thrive:
Climate and Hardiness
Messmate is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, making it suitable for warmer regions of the United States. It prefers Mediterranean-type climates with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
Soil and Site Requirements
- Well-draining soil is absolutely essential
- Full sun exposure for best growth
- Can handle various soil types, but avoid waterlogged conditions
- Give it plenty of room – plan for a mature spread of 40-60 feet
Planting and Early Care
Plant messmate in spring when the weather is warming up. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Water regularly during the first year while the root system establishes, then you can back off – this tree is quite drought tolerant once settled.
Ongoing Maintenance
The beauty of messmate is that it’s relatively low-maintenance once established. Minimal pruning is needed, though you’ll want to remove any dead or crossing branches. Be prepared for regular leaf and bark drop – it’s just part of life with this tree.
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
Messmate flowers are a pollinator paradise, producing nectar-rich blooms that bees absolutely love. The tree also provides habitat for various birds and can become a wildlife hub in larger landscapes.
Consider Native Alternatives
While messmate can be a stunning addition to the right property, consider exploring native alternatives that might provide similar benefits. Large native oaks, maples, or conifers appropriate to your region can offer comparable landscape impact while supporting local ecosystems.
The Bottom Line
Messmate is a tree for dreamers with big landscapes and bigger visions. If you have the space, climate, and desire for a truly spectacular specimen tree, and you’ve confirmed it’s appropriate for your local area, messmate could be the statement tree you’ve been looking for. Just remember – go big or go home with this one!
