Discovering Pemberton’s Distinctive Tree Species

Pemberton’s diverse forests are home to some of Western Australia’s most iconic native trees, each with unique characteristics and ecological roles that contribute to the landscape’s beauty and biodiversity. From towering Karri trees to the resilient Jarrah and distinct Marri, these trees provide habitat, support native wildlife, and contribute to the region’s rich ecosystem. Understanding the differences between these species enhances any journey through Pemberton’s forests, revealing the intricate balance of flora that defines this part of the Southern Forests.

• Karri (Eucalyptus diversicolor)
  Known as one of the tallest trees in the world, Karri trees can grow up to 90 metres, creating vast canopies that provide critical shade and habitat for various species. Their smooth, pale bark peels in layers, showcasing a striking mix of creams, pinks, and greys. Karri trees require moist, temperate conditions to thrive and are uniquely adapted to the high-rainfall regions of Pemberton. Their towering stature and the dense canopy they form give Karri forests a “cathedral” atmosphere that is both tranquil and awe-inspiring.
• Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata)
  Renowned for its durability, Jarrah wood is reddish-brown and highly prized for construction and furniture. Jarrah trees, typically growing up to 40 metres, have rough, dark bark and thrive in sandy soils and drier conditions compared to Karri. Their hardiness allows them to adapt to Western Australia’s varied climate, and their extensive root systems help them withstand dry spells, making them a dominant feature in drier forests. Jarrah forests are often interspersed with wildflowers, adding a contrasting visual charm.
• Marri (Corymbia calophylla)
  Marri trees, also known as Red Gums, are easily recognizable by their rough, tessellated bark and distinctive “honky nuts” (large gum nuts). These trees grow up to 40 metres and produce showy cream to white flowers, which are an important nectar source for local fauna. Marri wood has a reddish hue and is less dense than Jarrah, often used in plywood and specialty furniture. Marri trees play a vital ecological role, providing food and shelter to numerous bird and insect species.
• Yarri or Blackbutt (Eucalyptus patens)
  Commonly found along waterways, Yarri trees have thick, fibrous bark and a straight trunk, growing up to 45 metres. Known for their tolerance to waterlogged soils, they are often found in low-lying, swampy areas. Yarri forests support a rich understorey and are key to preventing soil erosion near rivers and creeks. Their light green leaves and straight growth add a distinctive look to the landscape, contrasting with the denser, towering Karri and rough-barked Jarrah.
• Peppermint (Agonis flexuosa)
  Named for the minty aroma of its leaves, Peppermint trees are smaller, typically reaching 10 metres, with rough, dark bark. These trees provide excellent windbreaks and are often found along roadsides or as shade trees in open landscapes. The narrow, fragrant leaves give the tree its characteristic scent, which is released when crushed. Peppermint trees are well-adapted to Pemberton’s varied soils and climate, making them hardy and widespread.
• Karri Sheoak (Allocasuarina decussata)
  A distinctive part of Pemberton’s forests, the Karri Sheoak is a small to medium-sized tree, typically up to 10–15 metres. Its needle-like branches give it a soft, feathery appearance, and it is known for the whispering sound its branches produce in the wind. With dark, grooved bark, this tree thrives in the understorey of taller Karri forests, playing a complementary role in the overall ecosystem. Karri Sheoak provides valuable shelter for smaller wildlife and adds to the diversity of forest sounds and textures.