From Ferdinand von Mueller to Frederick Barlee   [July 1869]1

[In reply he reports "that the value of jarrah (Eucalyptus) seeds would be from 15s. to 25s. per lb., perhaps more, when once the value of this important tree was properly and generally understood …2 I believe the demand for it in South Europe, North and South Africa, and various parts of America, would be enormous." It should also be known that persons collecting these seeds should keep those from each variety of the jarrah tree separate, and send with each packet a twig and leaves of the description of tree from whence the seeds were procured.]3

Eucalyptus

Letter not found. The text given here is from 'A new resource', Inquirer and commercial news (Perth), 4 August 1869, p. 2. The extract is introduced by 'It is well known to many of our readers that Dr. Mueller, of Melbourne, well known throughout Australia for his scientific attainments, has interested himself considerably with many of our native products; and that through private correspondence kept up with Mr. Barlee, we have gleaned some information, valuable in its way, through the doctor's knowledge and researches. We learn that by the last mail an interesting communication was received respecting the seed of the jarrah (Eucalyptus) which is certainly worthy being made public, and may open a new source of employment to many residents in the country. Some jarrah seeds were sent to Dr. Mueller two months ago, with a request that he would state their value in Melbourne' (request letter not found).

Ellipsis in source.

Part of this item was reprinted by Ballarat star, 4 September 1869, p. 2.

Please cite as “FVM-69-07-00,” in Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, edited by R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora†, J.H. Voigt† and Monika Wells accessed on 5 June 2025, https://epsilon.ac.uk/view/vonmueller/letters/69-07-00