If you visit this website, you will probably have noticed that I have a bit of an obsession with Snow Gums.

Snow Gums (Eucalyptus pauciflora) are the classic tree of the higher mountains of south eastern Australia. Interspaced with Alpine Ash at the lower end of their distribution, much of the forests and woodlands at higher levels across the Alps are dominated by this wonderful tree. They are profoundly different to the trees found in mountain areas in other parts of the world, and give a uniquely Australian sense to our high country. I am always amazed by the remarkable diversity in form that is possible within a single species. From grand tall elders in sheltered zones to wind pruned Bonsai sized trees on the treeline, the Snow Gum has a dazzling diversity of forms.

Sadly, they are facing a double threat: they are at risk from dieback and climate change driven bushfires. If you’re interested in learning about that, and what we might do to ensure their survival, please check here.

There are few things as lovely as wandering through a Snow Gum forest after a big dump of dry powder. I find forests under snow completely magic, and Snow Gums can be so charismatic. Yes, they are ‘just’ trees, but they have such beauty and uniqueness and, I would say, a calm presence.

I hope you enjoy these interpretations (modified photos) of trees under snow from recent storms that blanketed the area around JB Plain in the Alpine national park in Victoria.

(*) Yes there are many wonderful trees out there. A few of my other faves: Pencil Pine, Myrtle Beech, Deciduous Beech, Alpine Ash.