Research on WA honey

In recent years, the rise of the honey industry in Western Australia has drawn our attention from the publications on medical and scientific benefits on Jarrah, Marri (Red Gum) and Karri honey, premium varieties exclusive to the state. International recognition has, over the same time, been well received and is drawing buyers from honey hungry markets like China, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan.  

This “buzz” is not just coming from the bees; it is the result of a concerted effort by all the players in the industry including the supports from Federal and State governments and the hard works from the bee keepers on production to marketing.

Though much researches and studies have been carried out on WA honey industry, emphasis has been placed on Jarrah honey due to its high antibacterial and antimicrobial activity and hydrogen peroxide level which can inhibit Golden Staph Bacteria.

Jarrah trees (Eucalyptus marginata), are unique to Western Australia. The Jarrah tree is a magnificent tall timber tree that can grow up to 40 meters in height.  It is a slow growing Eucalyptus tree that can live up to 1000 years.  It has with a brown fissured bark that can withstand intense forest fires and a large green canopy.

When it is in full flower, it is simply magnificent.  The flowers are carried on the tips of the branches and the whole tree can be covered in beautiful creamy flowers.

Jarrah generally flowers every two years, usually from December through to January in the early summer.  The nectar produced has low moisture content and is collected by honeybees.

The Western Australian government has programs to protect its state forests and water catchments from industry and urban sprawl.

Image source: Flicker-Honey Bee Hive in Jarrah Tree Trunk 2

Marri Trees

Marri Trees are also commonly Known as “Red Gum” in Western Australia. They are native to and distributed along the Southwest corner of Western Australia. These trees are exclusive to Western Australia and grow alongside other natives such as Jarrah and Karri.

Not only is Marri (Red Gum) honey a great tasting honey it is also a very ‘active’ honey. Just like Jarrah honey, Marri honey can be tested for its total activity (TA) level. 

Karri Trees

The Karri Tree (Eucalyptus Diversicolor) is a native tree unique to the southwest region of Western Australia It is the third tallest tree in Australia and one of the tallest in the world, reaching heights of ninety meters. Karri trees only flower once every 7 to 12 years, but when they do the honey made from them is reputed to be amazing.