Eucalyptus torquata

RHS Plant Profile
coral gum
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Trees Shrubs

Small evergreen tree or multi-stemmed shrub about 4-11m tall, endemic to southern Western Australia. Rough, flaking dark grey-brown to grey-black bark and smooth grey or coppery branches, with greyish-green, elliptical juvenile leaves 6cm long and lance-shaped dull grey-green adult leaves to 15cm long. Masses of orange, barrel-shaped buds are followed by clusters of coral-pink flowers from late winter to late spring, followed by pendulous cylindrical, woody fruits, ribbed at the base

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Myrtaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Eucalyptus are evergreen trees or large shrubs, often fast-growing, some with attractive bark, most with aromatic foliage, and clusters of small, white, yellow or red flowers
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, neutral to acid soil in full sun with shelter from cold winds. Grow tender species outdoors in mild or frost-free counties only. See eucalyptus cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed at 13-18°C in spring and summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Sub-tropical

Pruning

Pruning group 1, or for the best display of juvenile foliage use Pruning group 7. See Eucalyptus: pruning for more detailed advice

Pests

May be susceptible to eucalyptus gall wasp and eucalyptus sucker

Diseases

May be susceptible to silver leaf, oedema and honey fungus