A small, hardy goldfields gum smothered in coral-pink to red lantern-shaped flowers for much of the year. An excellent drought-tough feature and street tree.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 8 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Coral Gum
Botanically, Eucalyptus torquata is a tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to Western Australia. It reaches around 8 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink and red flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Coral Gum
Coral Gum suits Mediterranean, arid and semi-arid and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Coral Gum does best in free-draining, clay and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Coral Gum is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Coral Gum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Coral Gum in the garden
Coral Gum earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and a shade tree.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Coral Gum with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Coral Gum
Plant Sale lists Coral Gum as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.