Corymbia Maculata

Description

Corymbia Maculata, also known as spotted gum or lemon-scented gum, is a tall and straight-trunked tree that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to eastern Australia and can grow up to 45 meters tall. The tree has a distinctive spotted bark that sheds in patches, revealing a smooth, cream-colored trunk beneath. It produces white flowers in clusters and woody capsules that contain numerous small seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Myrtales
Family	Myrtaceae
Genus	Corymbia

Appearance

The spotted gum has a distinctive and attractive appearance. Its bark is rough, fibrous, and spotted with patches of various colors that range from white and gray to pink and brown. The trunk is straight and can grow up to 1.5 meters in diameter. The tree’s leaves are long and narrow, with a glossy green color and a strong lemon scent. The flowers are white and grow in clusters, while the woody capsules that contain the seeds are roughly spherical in shape and about 1 cm in diameter.

Care Guide

Corymbia Maculata is a hardy species that can adapt to a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:

• Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the summer months. However, it can also tolerate drought conditions.
• Fertilization: Spotted gum trees benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
• Sunlight: Corymbia Maculata prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: It can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Spotted gum trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by the following:

• Termites: The tree is susceptible to termite damage, especially when it is young.
• Borers: Borers can infest the tree’s trunk and branches, causing damage to the tree’s vascular system.
• Fungal diseases: The tree can be affected by fungal diseases such as anthracnose and leaf spot.

Habitat

Corymbia Maculata is native to eastern Australia and can be found in a range of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and coastal areas. It is a popular tree for landscaping and can also be used for timber production.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Corymbia Maculata be grown in pots?
• A: While it is possible to grow the tree in a pot, it is not recommended as it can grow up to 45 meters tall.
• Q: What is the best time of year to plant Corymbia Maculata?
• A: The best time to plant the tree is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.
• Q: How fast does Corymbia Maculata grow?
• A: The tree can grow up to 2 meters per year under optimal growing conditions.
• Q: Is Corymbia Maculata a good tree for firewood?
• A: Yes, the tree’s wood is dense and durable, making it a good source of firewood.

Related Plants

• Corymbia Citriodora
• Corymbia Ficifolia
• Corymbia Calophylla
• Corymbia Gummifera

References

• “Corymbia maculata.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Web. 31 July 2021.
• “Corymbia maculata.” PlantNET – The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust. Web. 31 July 2021.
• “Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata).” Tree Watch. Web. 31 July 2021.