The Gum Tree Sticks with You
Extending its long taproot into the ground
The gum tree is stuck with you
Not to be transplanted
Permanently in your view
With its ridged dark bark
And simple obovate leaves
Foliage in an oval
And green flowers it conceives
Prepare to be friends
With animals big and small
The thrush, the raccoon, the bee
Your gum tree is a gift to them all
You may not like the drupes
Sour and bitter you may find
But the honey is a hot commodity
So try to keep that in mind
Unassuming is your tree
Now that it is spring
But wait until next autumn
And colorful leaves your tree will bring
The gum tree is stuck with you
But that isn’t so bad
Beautifying the landscape and feeding the wildlife
There are worse fates to be had