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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Coral Gum handles dry conditions well 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 Coral Gum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
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 easier irrigation and care, group Coral Gum with species that also favour very drought tolerant 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 Coral Gum
Plant Sale lists Coral Gum as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
