Illyarrie (Eucalyptus erythrocorys). Photo © Consultaplantas · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
The illyarrie is a fire-adapted low tree that naturally grows with at least one major branch set at a precarious angle near ground level, facilitating the self-amputation of up to a quarter of the body mass of the plant.
As long as the shed branch lies intact under the plant, it would boost any fire subsequently sweeping the surrounding ‘heathland’ – and the chances of igniting the green crown of the illyarrie and depositing enough ash for regeneration.
This growth-form, although rare among plants even in fire-prone Australia, is distinctive enough to deserve a new name: pyree.
Figure 2. Distribution of the illyarrie (Eucalyptus erythrocorys) in Australia. Photo by Wikimedia Commons
Robin and the Honey Badger, 22 March 2016