Contents
1. Description
Eucalyptus camaldulensis, also known as the river red gum, is a tree species that belongs to the family Myrtaceae. This species is native to Australia and is commonly found growing along riverbanks and floodplains. It is a large tree that can reach a height of up to 45 meters and a trunk diameter of 1-3 meters. The bark is smooth and white, with patches of gray, pink, and red. The leaves are long and narrow, with a blue-green color, and have a distinctive eucalyptus smell. The flowers are white or cream and grow in clusters. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Eucalyptus |
3. Appearance
Eucalyptus camaldulensis is a tall tree with a straight trunk and a broad canopy. The leaves are long, narrow, and lance-shaped, with a blue-green color and a glossy texture. The flowers are white or cream and grow in clusters of up to 15. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains numerous small seeds. The bark of the tree is smooth and white, with patches of gray, pink, and red. As the tree ages, the bark becomes rough and peels off in strips.
4. Care Guide
Water
Eucalyptus camaldulensis requires moderate watering. It prefers well-drained soil, but it can tolerate occasional flooding. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization
Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
Soil
Eucalyptus camaldulensis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight
Eucalyptus camaldulensis thrives in full sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may not grow as quickly.
Hardiness Zones
Eucalyptus camaldulensis can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Eucalyptus camaldulensis can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Psyllids
- Sawflies
- Beetles
- Scale insects
Diseases
- Root rot
- Leaf spot
- Canker
- Dieback
6. Habitat
Eucalyptus camaldulensis is native to Australia and is commonly found growing along riverbanks and floodplains. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding. The tree is also commonly planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Can Eucalyptus camaldulensis be grown in containers?
A: No, Eucalyptus camaldulensis is not suitable for container growing due to its large size.
Q: Is Eucalyptus camaldulensis drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus camaldulensis is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: How fast does Eucalyptus camaldulensis grow?
A: Eucalyptus camaldulensis can grow up to 6 feet per year under optimal growing conditions.
Q: Can Eucalyptus camaldulensis be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Eucalyptus camaldulensis can be grown from seed. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination.
9. Related Plants
- Eucalyptus globulus
- Eucalyptus citriodora
- Eucalyptus deglupta
- Eucalyptus grandis
10. References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/eucalyptus/eucalyptus-tree-care.htm
- https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=860
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/trees-shrubs-vines/trees/eucalyptus-trees/
