River Red Gum

(Eucalyptus camaldulensis)

River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis)

Forest and Kim Starr

CC BY 2.0

Image By: Forest and Kim Starr

Recorded By:

Copyright Notice: Photo by: Forest and Kim Starr | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Starr Environmental | Publisher: Flickr

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Eucalyptus camaldulensis, commonly known as the River Red Gum, is a tree endemic to Australia, particularly found in riparian zones, floodplains, and wetlands. It is a key species along watercourses and is essential for maintaining the health of these ecosystems. This tree typically grows to a height of 20 meters (66 ft) and has a distinctive appearance with smooth white or cream-colored bark that sheds in patches to reveal yellow, pink, or brown hues. The adult leaves are lance-shaped to curved, dull green or greyish green on both sides. Flower buds are arranged in groups of seven, nine, or sometimes eleven, and the white flowers bloom mainly in summer, offering a subtle display. The hemispherical fruit has valves extending beyond the rim, which is a notable feature.

The River Red Gum is valued for its resilience to extreme temperatures and drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is also used for habitat restoration and erosion control due to its extensive root system. The tree’s tendency to drop limbs poses a risk, so it should not be planted near areas of human activity. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun with medium water requirements and prefers soils with slow or medium drainage. It can be grown as a bonsai and has the ability to regrow from the base and epicormic buds after damage. However, it is potentially invasive when grown outside its native range, so caution is advised.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Tree
Height: 65-120 feet
Width: 60-100 feet
Growth Rate: Rapid
Flower Color: White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun
Water: Medium
Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Salt Tolerant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to riparian zones, floodplains, and wetlands within Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Murray Red Gum, Eucalipto-Rojo, Red Gum, Blue Gum, River Gum, River Red Gum, Rooibloekom, Roter Eukalyptus, Eucalipto-Negro, Eucalyptus Rouge

Scientific Names: , Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis, Eucalyptus canalouensis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh.