Flowering Gum Tree

One of the native tree species in Australia are from the Eucalypti family. In late spring they bloom profusely with these quite colourful and unusual flowers. Once the flowers have ceased, the tree is then adorned with these interesting nut pods.
People have collected them turning and producing all sorts of sculptured products. This activity is now "frowned upon" unless the trees are in private gardens.

There are a number of different colours although this one is my favourite.