An adaptable evergreen Australian native with glossy leaves, smooth peeling orange-brown bark and fragrant yellow summer flowers. A popular, well-behaved street and feature tree.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 8 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Water Gum
Botanically, Tristaniopsis laurina is a moderate-growing tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. It reaches around 8 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Water Gum
Water Gum suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Water Gum does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Water Gum does best with regular, moderate watering. 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 Water Gum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Water Gum in the garden
Water Gum earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
Combine Water Gum with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe. It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Water Gum
Plant Sale lists Water Gum as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed with your quote; ask about your preferred size before planning a purchase.
