Wp/nys/Mari

Mari Gum

Mari flowers

The Mari is a eucalypt tree. Other Noongar names for the tree are Marri (Menang Noongar) wer Kardan (Whadjuk Noongar). English names are Marri wer Red Gum, due to the red gum effusions (sap) often found il trunks (see picture). Its scientific name is Corymbia calophylla. The English name 'marri' comes from the Noongar.

Description

The tree typically grows to a height of approximately 40 metres wer has distinctive rough bark. It produces white to pink flowers between December wer May that later form gumnuts.

Uses

The Mari is used to make a variety of objects like doarks (sticks for knocking the tops off balga), kitjs (spears) wer wannas (digging sticks).

The leaves from the tree create an oil used for medicinal purposes. To clear the nasal passages rub the leaves between the hands wer then breathe in. Additionally the gum from the tree was used for medicinal purposes, as it served as an effective mild anaesthetic. Larger pieces of gum have been used as fillings for hollow teeth wer to treat diarrhoea. The gum can also be boodjar into a fine powder wer used as an ointment il sores or infected areas, or mixed with water as a tonic for upset stomachs.

The blossoms are used as a source of nectar, which can be sucked directly from the flower or can be dipped into water to make a sweet drink. These blossom also attract Ngoowak wer honey can be found in the hollows of eucalyptus branches. These trees also attract birds which nest in the branch hollows, in which eggs can be found to eat.