River Red Gum
eucalyptus camaldulensis
Also known as: ["Red Gum","Longleaf Red Gum","Murray Red Gum"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its reddish-brown bark and lance-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Eucalyptus |
| Botanical Name: | Eucalyptus camaldulensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open, sunny area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–45°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with sand, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth annually to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in mild to hot climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Apply fertilizer only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood; focus on structural improvement and air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace old soil with fresh mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use pine bark fines for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to root damage or death if prolonged.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors during freezes; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced growth due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use correct dilution; apply evenly; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEucalyptus camaldulensis is toxic to cats, with the essential oil posing a significant risk. Cats are particularly sensitive to eucalyptol, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicEucalyptus camaldulensis is toxic to dogs, with the essential oil being particularly hazardous. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and more severe neurological effects due to the concentration of eucalyptol.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEucalyptus camaldulensis contains toxic compounds, primarily eucalyptol (cineole), which can cause mild to moderate toxicity when ingested. The essential oil is particularly potent and should be handled with care. Physiologically, these compounds can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eucalyptus camaldulensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How tall does the River Red Gum grow?
A: It can grow up to 45 meters (148 feet) tall in ideal conditions.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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