A compact grafted flowering gum bred for masses of large deep red to coral blooms through summer and autumn. A small, reliable feature tree that performs across most of Australia.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 5 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Summer Red Flowering Gum
Eucalyptus 'Summer Red' is a moderate-growing tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 5 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red and orange flowers appear in summer and autumn.
Where to grow Summer Red Flowering Gum
Summer Red Flowering Gum suits subtropical, warm-temperate and Mediterranean 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
Summer Red Flowering Gum does best in loamy, free-draining and sandy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Summer Red Flowering Gum performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Summer Red Flowering Gum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Summer Red Flowering Gum in the garden
Summer Red Flowering Gum earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and a shade tree.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same happy on low water and subtropical climate as Summer Red Flowering Gum. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Summer Red Flowering Gum
Plant Sale lists Summer Red Flowering Gum as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
