Resolution of a 35-year taxonomic dilemma: Eucalyptus sp. Howes Swamp Creek (Myrtaceae) from eastern Wollemi National Park, New South Wales

The identity of a population eucalypts from Howes Swamp Creek in the eastern part Wollemi National Park New South Wales has remained unresolved for over 35 years. Despite several workers inspecting both site and trees growing there this period, little consensus been achieved on its taxonomic status. Various suggestions have made that entity was new species with affinities to Eucalyptus dalrympleana, E. viminalis or bridgesiana, at one time unpublished manuscript name ‘wollemiensis’ used. Because perceived small size threats posed by wildfire other factors, phrase sp. (M.Doherty 26) listed as an endangered taxon Commonwealth State threatened legislation. Our investigations last few years, involving field, seedling, herbarium studies, determined original reference specimen designated is which gathered comprises hybrid swarm bridgesiana × viminalis. Both parent are present site, although former seemingly very rare there. We recommend be removed legislation, names ms considered nomenclatural synonyms bridgesiana.