Corymibia ficifolia
(previously known as Eucalyptus ficifolia)
Common name: Red-flowering Gum
Family: MYRTACEAE (c. 150 Genera)
Origin of Scientific Name
Corymbia – from Latin corymbium, referring to the apparently terminal floral clusters (flower heads) that meet in a flattish “canopy” called a corymb.
ficifolia – with leaves resembling Ficus: Latin, genus Ficus + folium = leaf.
Description
Typically grows from 6 to 10 m. The Ficus-like leaves are broadly lanceolate, leathery, with a dark green upper, paler green beneath. Bark is rough, greyish brown and persistent (does not shed).
Distribution
Found in sandy soils in a very restricted area of open forest around Albany and east of Mt Frankland and Walpole in Western Australia’s South West.
Flowering Season
Cultivation/Propagation
Despite the fact that it grows easily from seed, you will have about a seven year wait to discover what colour the flowers are. Buying a “Red Flowering Gum” seedling from a nursery in no way guarantees that it will be either red or a Corymbia ficifolia – all gums flower and many are red. Check your local nursery for grafted forms. Although it prefers sandy, infertile soils in its natural habitat, it seems to adapt easily to most soil types. Highly tolerant to drought, wind and salt. See our plant notes for more on Corymbia ficifolia.
Pests and Diseases
Generally pest and disease free.
View This Plant in Kings Park
Eucalyptus Carpark on Lovekin Drive, Roe Gardens, Lotterywest Family Area, garden bed behind Zamia Café. To help locate these sites, you may download the Western Australian Botanic Garden brochure via our brochures page.