Red Flowering Gum
corymbia ficifolia
Also known as: ["Eucalyptus ficifolia","Red Flowering Gum Tree"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized tree native to Western Australia, known for its vibrant red flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Corymbia |
| Botanical Name: | Corymbia ficifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix, such as cactus mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if needed, but avoid heavy pruning on young trees.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential for flowering; rotate container plants for even light exposure; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot conditions (65–95°F or 18–35°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers; use a low-phosphorus formula for flowering trees.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for cultivars.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
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
Stem cuttings root in 4–8 weeks. Seed germination takes 2–6 weeks, with establishment over several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back for shape, and removal of crossing/rubbing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage flowering. Focus on structural improvement and air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water well after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely and avoid wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback. Prolonged cold can damage roots and reduce vigor.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or mulch. Plant in a sheltered location or move containers indoors during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. Water stress may exacerbate heat damage.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; follow label instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Apply a light dose of liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorymbia ficifolia is not known to be toxic to cats when ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCorymbia ficifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs when ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCorymbia ficifolia is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans when ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does the Red Flowering Gum grow?
A: It typically grows to 6-10 meters tall, though dwarf varieties exist.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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