Coral Gum
eucalyptus torquata
Also known as: ["Coral Gum","Rose Gum"]
Overview
A medium-sized evergreen tree native to Western Australia, known for its striking coral-pink flowers and aromatic foliage.
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 torquata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with good aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base, avoid heavy clay soils, ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Avoid fertilizing in winter, apply fertilizer to moist soil, flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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, keep moist and warm.
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%), 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 may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back to encourage branching, remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, maintain size and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may become root-bound if left too long.
Checklist
Check root boundness, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure deep saturation to encourage root growth, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, use a space heater if necessary, avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use correct dilution, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with stems/leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Eucalyptus torquata. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects, which may be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Eucalyptus torquata by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms due to the presence of toxic terpenes and other compounds. These substances can disrupt normal bodily functions and cause distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicEucalyptus torquata contains toxic compounds, primarily terpenes and flavonoids, which can cause significant physiological distress when ingested. These compounds interfere with the nervous system and can lead to respiratory issues and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eucalyptus torquata suitable for indoor growing?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and growth requirements.
Q: How often does Eucalyptus torquata flower?
A: It typically flowers from late winter to early summer, producing vibrant coral-pink blooms.
Q: Is Eucalyptus torquata drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for arid and semi-arid regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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