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Description
Corymbia Calophylla, commonly known as Marri or Port Gregory gum, is a small to medium-sized tree species that is native to Western Australia. It belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is one of the most commonly planted ornamental trees in the region. The tree is known for its smooth, reddish-brown bark that peels in thin strips, revealing a lighter-colored bark underneath. It produces creamy white flowers in late summer that attract bees and birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Corymbia |
Appearance
The Corymbia Calophylla tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. It has a broad, spreading canopy that can reach up to 20 meters in diameter. The leaves are long and narrow, and can grow up to 15 centimeters in length. They are dark green in color, with a glossy finish. The flowers are small and white, and grow in clusters of up to 20 on the ends of the branches. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains several small, brown seeds.
Care Guide
The Corymbia Calophylla tree prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is drought tolerant, but will benefit from regular watering during the growing season. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall, using a balanced fertilizer. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Corymbia Calophylla tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Powdery mildew may also occur, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Corymbia Calophylla tree is native to Western Australia, where it is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and coastal regions. It is commonly used as a street tree, and is also planted in parks and gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the average lifespan of the Corymbia Calophylla tree?
A: The tree can live up to 200 years in optimal growing conditions.
Q: Is the Corymbia Calophylla tree invasive?
A: No, the tree is not considered invasive in any region.
Q: Can the Corymbia Calophylla tree be grown in containers?
A: While the tree can be grown in containers, it will not reach its full potential size and may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does the Corymbia Calophylla tree produce edible fruit?
A: No, the fruit of the tree is not edible.
Related Plants
- Corymbia ficifolia
- Corymbia citriodora
- Corymbia maculata
- Corymbia torelliana
References
- “Corymbia calophylla.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp4/corymbia-calophylla.html
- “Corymbia calophylla.” PlantNet. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Corymbia~calophylla
- “Corymbia calophylla.” Florabase. https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/2113
