Mugga Ironbark

(Eucalyptus sideroxylon)

Mugga Ironbark (Eucalyptus sideroxylon)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Eucalyptus sideroxylon image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Eucalyptus sideroxylon, commonly known as Mugga Ironbark or Red Ironbark, is an evergreen tree native to dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands in eastern Australia. It is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 25–35 m (82–115 ft) and can have a width of up to 15 m (49 ft). The tree’s most striking feature is its dark, deeply furrowed ironbark, which provides a stark contrast to the foliage. The lance-shaped adult leaves are a dull green or bluish-grey, and the tree produces flower buds in groups of seven. Its flowers, which can be white, red, pink, or creamy yellow, bloom from late autumn to spring and are quite showy, attracting a variety of pollinators. The fruit is cup-shaped to shortened spherical.

Mugga Ironbark is valued for its hardy nature and ornamental qualities, including its striking bark and colorful flowers. It is used in urban landscaping, as a shade tree, and for its timber, which is hard and durable. This tree is well-suited to areas with full sun and can tolerate drought, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It prefers well-drained soils and can adapt to a range of soil types, from clay to sandy loams. While it is generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to psyllids, which may require management. Due to its deep root system, it should be planted away from structures to avoid potential damage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-90 feet
  • Width: 30-60 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, White, Red
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands in eastern Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Mugga Ironbark, Three-Fruit Red Ironbark, Black Ironbark, Swartysterbasbloekom, Red Ironbark Eucalyptus

Scientific Names: , Eucalyptus sideroxylon,

GBIF Accepted Name: Eucalyptus sideroxylon A.Cunn. ex Woolls