One of the most spectacular flowering trees in the world, smothered in summer with huge corymbs of scarlet, orange or pink blossom alive with birds and bees. A rounded shade tree for warm gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 9 m H × 7 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Red Flowering Gum
Botanically, Corymbia ficifolia is a moderate-growing tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to Western Australia. It reaches around 9 m tall and 7 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red, orange and pink flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Red Flowering Gum
Red Flowering Gum suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Red Flowering Gum does best in sandy, free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Red Flowering Gum performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Red Flowering Gum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Once established, it is low maintenance.
Using Red Flowering Gum in the garden
Red Flowering Gum earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a shade tree, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Red Flowering Gum with species that also favour low water use and Mediterranean climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Red Flowering Gum
Plant Sale lists Red Flowering Gum as tube stock, potted plants, advanced specimens and seed. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Red Flowering Gum seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
