Peppermint of New South Wales.

Rare c.18th engraving of the Sydney Peppermint published 22nd December 1798 which was first collected by John White at Sydney Cove. James Edward Smith gave it the specific epithet piperita because its odour of its essential oil was so similar to that of Mentha piperita, the peppermint.

Modern common name: Sydney peppermint and urn-fruited peppermint
Modern binomial name: Eucalyptus piperita
First described: Smith 1790
Distribution: NSW

The source of this illustration as noted by the publisher;
Of these botanical productions, and other rare objects of natural history, by the friendship of a gentleman in an official department, who was for many years resident, we possess a very valuable collection of original drawings, executed with admirable accuracy and taste.

From; The Naturalist’s Pocket Magazine; or, Compleat Cabinet of the Curiosities and Beauties of Nature

References:
George, A. Capturing Flora / 300 Years of Australian Botanical Art. Ballarat 2013 p.42 ill. p.44.

Collections:
National Library Australia: Bib ID 3202841