Candlebark Gum
eucalyptus rubida
Also known as: ["Candlebark","Candlebark Gum"]
Overview
A medium-sized eucalyptus tree native to southeastern Australia, known for its distinctive bark that peels off in strips, revealing a smooth, white or greyish surface.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Eucalyptus |
| Botanical Name: | Eucalyptus rubida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, open area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
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 hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low organic content
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds if drainage is poor; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, temperate climates.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- 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 (65–75°F), 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 root development.
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; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging.
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. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or drop; young plants are more susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth in cold snaps; plant in a sheltered location; avoid wet soil in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding; monitor for salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEucalyptus rubida is toxic to cats, with ingestion causing gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. Cats are particularly sensitive to essential oils, which can lead to severe reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicEucalyptus rubida is toxic to dogs, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological symptoms due to the presence of eucalyptol and other terpenes. The essential oils are particularly harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEucalyptus rubida contains compounds such as eucalyptol that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological effects when ingested in significant quantities. The essential oils are particularly concentrated and can be irritating to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eucalyptus rubida suitable for cold climates?
A: Yes, it is moderately cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C.
Q: Does Eucalyptus rubida require a lot of water?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant once established and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Eucalyptus rubida attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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