Accession Count: 3
Common Name:
coral gum
Family Name:
Myrtaceae
Botanical Name:
Eucalyptus torquata
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
The E. torquata has six inch long, lanceolate shaped leaves, and is categorized as a winter evergreen tree. It often times attracts bees with its bright red colored flowers.
Compound:
Euc tor
Geographic Origin:
Australia
Ecozone Origin:
Australasia
Biome Origin:
AU
Natural History:
There are over 600 species of the Eucalyptus. This genus originated in Australia; they were later dispersed to Europe, Africa, India and the Americas. In the late 1700’s European botanists visiting the Australian coast brought samples of the Eucalyptus to London, where they were designated the name: “Eucalyptus”(8). The name “Eucalyptus” is derived from the Greek ‘eu’ meaning well, and ‘calyptos’ meaning to cover, referring to the cover surrounding the flower buds (4). Due to the many uses of the Eucalyptus including timber, fuel, medicine, honey, and medicinal oils, their appeal spread throughout Europe as well as Africa and India. America wasn’t an exception as European settlers brought them along while settling in California. California’s welcoming environment allowed for the rapid growth and propagation of Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus trees of various species are now a significant part of the California landscape (8).
Cultivation Notes:
This species is one of the smaller and more ornamental species of Eucalyptus. Large amounts of nectar are produced by these flowers for bees and insects to harvest. May be difficult to grow depending on the growing environment. It grows best in full sun. Be careful not to over water this species or else it could lead to top heavy growth and chlorosis. It needs special attention when staking and pruning in order to produce a good shape.
Ethnobotany:
Eucalyptus has long been used to treat <g data-gr-id="9">cough</g> and cold symptoms. The dried leaves are used in herbal remedies, which aid in soothing the throat and treating bronchitis. Eucalyptus is an ingredient in cough medications as well as ointments such as VapoRub, and Vicks (6). Oil from Eucalyptus gum is used as an astringent to treat plaque and gum disease and is an ingredient in antiseptic mouthwashes used to treat bad breath. Its oils are also an active ingredient in some insect repellants (7). E. torquata is an excellent landscape plant valued for its use in small patio spaces or along streets.
Height:
16 - 20 feet
Width:
16 - 20 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Summer
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
Red
Function:
Screen
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
