Most grow in Australia, which contains hundreds of species belonging to the genus. The trees are very popular and grow as introduced or cultivated plants in many parts of the world. The rainbow eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta) is native to the Philippines, Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea (PNG; UK:, US:; Tok Pisin: Papua Niugini; Hiri Motu: Papua Niu Gini), officially the Independent State of Papua New Guinea is a country in Oceania that occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and its offshore islands in Melanesia, a region of the southwester…
Where does Rainbow Eucalyptus grow?
The rainbow eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus deglupta) is native to the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. It's also known as the Mindanao gum tree after the island of Mindanao in the Philippines.
Do you like rainbow eucalyptus trees?
Linda Crampton (author) from British Columbia, Canada on January 30, 2015: Hi, firstday. Yes, the rainbow eucalyptus trees with the vivid colours are truly amazing. I like the ones with the palers colours, too. I think they're so pretty.
Is the rainbow eucalyptus photogenic?
The rainbow eucalyptus is beautiful, interesting, and so very photogenic! Very interesting read. Congratulations on HOTD honors today! Peg Cole from North Dallas, Texas on May 04, 2015: When I first saw these photos I couldn't believe they were real.
Where do rainbow eucalyptus trees grow in Australia?
The tree is particularly attractive after rain, and if you are thinking of growing it in Australia it does require a frost free environment, however it is now grown as far south as Sydney, and could survive further south in the right location.
What zones do rainbow eucalyptus trees grow in?
They're hardy in Zones 9-11, which includes parts of southern California, Texas, Florida, and Hawaii. Rainbow trees grow best in full sun with consistently moist soil (they can tolerate short periods of drought, but it's best to keep them well-watered).
Can I grow a rainbow eucalyptus?
In the U.S., rainbow eucalyptus grows in the frost-free climates found in Hawaii and the southern portions of California, Texas and Florida. It is suitable for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and higher. In the continental U.S., the tree only grows to heights of 100 to 125 feet (30 to 38 m.).
Is rainbow eucalyptus cold hardy?
These trees grow best in temperatures of around 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and appreciate high humidity levels. Unsurprisingly, rainbow eucalyptus trees are not tolerant of frosts.
Is rainbow eucalyptus invasive?
writes to tell us that in most if not all U.S. states, the rainbow eucalyptus is considered an invasive species outside of its native range, and you may be cited and fined for growing them, or asked to cut them down.
How fast does a rainbow eucalyptus tree grow?
three feet per yearRainbow Eucalyptus Trees are naturally resistant to pest and disease issues, making them extremely easy to grow. Plus, they're fast growers — gaining up to three feet per year, so you'll get to enjoy their beauty soon after planting.
Is rainbow eucalyptus rare?
This makes for a spectacle that is unforgettable. Also known as the Mindanao gum or rainbow gum, the rainbow eucalyptus is a tall tree that is unique in that it's the only eucalyptus to live in the rainforest and only one of four species found outside of Australia.
Are rainbow eucalyptus trees endangered?
Threats: No threats are currently being recognized, but let's make sure they maintain a non-vulnerable status! Conservation: Since there are no severe threats affecting this species at this time, conservation efforts have not been reported for the protection of the rainbow eucalyptus.
Are rainbow eucalyptus trees toxic?
All eucalyptus varieties have bark and oil that are poisonous at high concentrations, if eaten. Skin irritation can occur, as well.
Can I grow a rainbow eucalyptus indoors?
Can eucalyptus be grown indoors? Yes, it can. Potted eucalyptus trees make a pretty and fragrant potted plant on your patio or inside your house.
Do koalas eat rainbow eucalyptus?
Gum trees are a group of eucalyptus species with a smooth bark that is periodically shed. The main component of a koala's diet is eucalyptus leaves.
How long do rainbow eucalyptus trees live?
It is a large, fast-growing, evergreen tree, with broad leaves that has a life span of 50-150 years. The trunk of the rainbow eucalyptus can grow to a diameter of up to 6 feet.
Where does the rainbow eucalyptus grow?
The Rainbow Eucalyptus. A unique species from the Philippines, through Indonesia to New Guinea, Eucalyptus deglupta is referred to as the ‘Rainbow’ Eucalyptus for the color of its trunk and and also known as the Minandao Gum. It is a large growing tree originally from sub tropical to tropical areas, grown for timber and paper pulp it has become ...
Can Eucalyptus deglupta die back?
Even in New South Wales, in the colder areas such as the southern highlands, in cold winters Eucalyptus deglupta can suffer from die back or worse.
Where do rainbow eucalyptus trees grow?
The rainbow eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus deglupta) is native to the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. It's also known as the Indonesian gum tree and the Mindanao gum after the island of Mindanao in the Philippines.
How long does a rainbow eucalyptus tree live?
amelia, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 License. The rainbow eucalyptus may grow as much as three feet in a year. It's said to live from 50 to 150 years and to be deer resistant.
How tall is Eucalyptus deglupta?
Like many other eucalyptus trees, Eucalyptus deglupta grows quickly and may become very tall. The mature tree may reach a height of 100 to a 150 feet in its native habitat—or even taller—but only 60 to 80 feet in other areas. The mature trunk is 6 to 8 feet in diameter. The spread of the tree is 60 to 125 feet.
What is the bark of a rainbow eucalyptus?
The Bark of the Rainbow Eucalyptus. The multicoloured trunk of the rainbow eucalyptus is a unique and highly appreciated feature. Green, orange, yellow, rusty red, maroon, brown, purple, and blue areas may all be visible on the trunk. On some trees, the colours are so vibrant and rich that they look artificial.
What is an unusual tree?
An Unusual and Attractive Tree. The rainbow eucalyptus is an unusual tree with a beautiful trunk. The trunk periodically sheds a strip of bark, revealing a green layer underneath. This layer then changes colour. The shedding and colour change happen at different times in different parts of the trunk. In addition, a variety of new colours are ...
Why do eucalyptus trees have different colors?
The combination of different amounts and kinds of tannins and a reduction in the amount of the underlying chlorophyll may be responsible for the varying colours seen on the trunk of the rainbow eucalyptus. It has been suggested that the shedding of the tree's bark reduces the growth of plants and parasites on its trunk.
Can eucalyptus grow in full sun?
The potential height and spread of a mature tree needs to be kept in mind if someone wants to grow one, however. The trees grow best in full sunlight and moist soil. They require a lot of water as well as warmth.
What Makes The Eucalyptus Deglupta Special
Interestingly enough, this eucalyptus tree you find mainly in Australia. But you can find the rainbow-colored in Malaysia and Papua and the northern hemisphere popular in Hawaii.
Rainbow Eucalyptus Care
The rainbow eucalyptus tree is a fast grower, so best not to place it in compact yards. The tree can reach considerable heights of more than 100 feet. It can also grow three feet every year. So, if you have space, you will have a tree that will provide you with enough shade in the garden.
Rainbow Eucalyptus Varieties
The tree is a tall species found globally, growing up to 300 feet high. The plant is drought tolerant and a fast grower with a stately form.
Rainbow Eucalyptus Diseases & Pests
Critters that can become a problem with your plants are beetles, beetle borers, wasps, psyllids, whiteflies, and sharpshooters attracted by the leaves.
Where does rainbow eucalyptus grow?
In the U.S., rainbow eucalyptus grows in the frost-free climates found in Hawaii and the southern portions of California, Texas and Florida.
What color is the bark of a rainbow eucalyptus tree?
The most outstanding feature of a rainbow eucalyptus tree is its bark. The previous season’s bark peels off in strips to reveal a brightly colored new bark below. The peeling process results in vertical streaks of red, orange, green, blue and gray. Although the tree’s color isn’t as intense outside its native range, ...
Can you grow rainbow eucalyptus in a frost free area?
If you live in a frost-free area that receives ample rainfall, you probably can, but the real question is whether you should. Rainbow eucalyptus is a huge tree that is out of scale for most home landscapes. It can cause property damage as its raised roots break up sidewalks, damage foundations and raise small structures, such as sheds.
What is the best climate for rainbow eucalyptus?
In order to flourish, the Rainbow Eucalyptus requires a humid climate, i.e. a moist, warm environment. In non-tropical regions, only a heated conservatory or a temperate greenhouse can provide this. The location should also be sunny and - in light of the growth - roomy.
How tall is a rainbow eucalyptus tree?
The Rainbow Eucalyptus grows very quickly and, in the outdoors, develops into 197 foot tall tree, on average, with a trunk diameter of a good 6.6 feet. The aptly named buttress roots extend from the side of the trunk and help anchor it into the soil: This is a characteristic of many tropical trees, which is also found in Elms. The crown shape is initially conical, but becomes flatter with age. Indoors, the tree remains significantly smaller, however under suitable conditions it can also grow to heights of several feet.#N#The Rainbow Eucalyptus is widely recognized thanks to its bark. This is smooth and essentially brownish. Because tears develop in the bark year on year, the luminous, green bark appears which, before also turning yellowish-brown, displays a color spectrum which ranges from luminous blue and violet to orange and fire red.
How cold does Eucalyptus deglupta need to be?
Eucalyptus deglupta is not winter-hardy and also requires temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the colder times of year. As the species is evergreen, its winter home needs to be light.
Why is my rainbow eucalyptus aphid?
Sometimes appear aphids, usually due to migration from neighboring plants.
Where are the umbels on Eucalyptus deglupta?
The umbel-shaped flower clusters of Eucalyptus deglupta can be found on the sides and ends of the shoots. The buds are covered with a small, semi-circle cap, typical for the genus, which falls off when they open but leaves a green scar in the middle of the flower. In non-tropical regions, the flowering period is in the winter months, although flowers on container plants are very rare.
What is the name of the tree with the multicolored trunk?
The Rainbow Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta) is probably the most impressive member of the genus Eucalyptus from the Myrtaceae family – travelers who have witnessed the tree with its multi-colored trunk in its native tropical regions can scarcely forget it. The Rainbow Eucalyptus was first mentioned in the mid-18th century, as ‘Arbor multicolor’ - so, as “multicolored tree”. Today, it is colloquially know as the Rainbow Gum or Rainbow Eucalyptus.
Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees Care
Transplanting these trees is not a good idea—they aren't fans of root disturbance. If you want to start seeds indoors, you'll want to grow your rainbow eucalyptus in a large container that can be easily transplanted outside. You'll want to select a warm, sheltered site as these trees don't like cold, drying winds.
Pruning
Your established rainbow eucalyptus tree won't need a lot of pruning unless you want to shape it, manage its height, or maintain a strong leader. The leader becomes less dominant as the tree ages and the branches start to curve up at the ends so that a flat, spreading crown develops.
Propagating Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees
Rainbow eucalyptus trees can be propagated only from very young trees. A study 1 showed that cuttings taken from seedlings and trees younger than five years rooted well, but cuttings taken from older trees failed to root due to a chemical that inhibits rooting within the older specimen.
How to Grow Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees From Seed
With the right conditions, this species also propagates easily from seed. Follow these tips for a higher success rate:
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Rainbow eucalyptus trees are relatively hardy and not prone to leaf spot disease, which is common in humid, warm environments. Their peeling bark also helps them get rid of certain parasites. However, they can suffer from root rot in waterlogged conditions and are susceptible to the root fungus Armillaria.
Why a rainbow color?
The rainbow eucalyptus is unique in that it loses sections of its bark on a regular basis (and at various seasons), revealing a trunk that changes color over time.
How to grow rainbow eucalyptus?
Although it is fond of humid tropical areas, the rainbow eucalyptus supports many types of soil. This tree appreciates good sun exposure and frequent watering.
An Unusual and Attractive Tree
Facts About Eucalyptus Plants
- All eucalyptus trees and shrubs belong to the genus Eucalyptus, which is in the myrtle family, or the Myrtaceae. The plants are native to Australia, Tasmania, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Most growin Australia, which contains hundreds of species belonging to the genus. The trees are very popular and grow as introduced or cultiv...
The Bark of The Rainbow Eucalyptus
- The multicoloured trunk of the rainbow eucalyptus is a unique and highly appreciated feature. Green, orange, yellow, rusty red, maroon, brown, purple, and blue areas may all be visible on the trunk. On some trees, the colours are so vibrant and rich that they look artificial. On others, they have a pastel hue. People who would like to grow the tree should be aware that the colours are o…
Other Features of The Tree
- Like many other eucalyptus trees, Eucalyptus degluptagrows quickly and may become very tall. The mature tree may reach a height of 100 to a 150 feet in its native habitat—or even taller—but only 60 to 80 feet in other areas. The mature trunk is 6 to 8 feet in diameter. The spread of the tree is 60 to 125 feet. The tree produces white flowers and has moderately wide, evergreen leaves. T…
Flowers and Fruits of The Species
- The flowers of rainbow eucalyptus and its relatives are unusual. They have no petals or sepals. They do have stamens and a pistil, however. The stamens are the male reproductive organs, and the pistil is the female organ. The flower buds take the form of a capsule containing the stamens and pistil. The capsule has a conical lid called an operculum. As a bud matures, the operculum b…
Leaves and Oil
- Eucalyptus leaves are leathery and hang from the branches. They are often long, narrow, and spear-shaped, although some species (including the rainbow eucalyptus) have wider and more rounded leaves. Some species in the genus produce copious amounts of oil, which is volatile as well as aromatic. When a large number of trees grow near each other, the evaporated oil someti…
Why Does The Rainbow Eucalyptus Have A Colourful trunk?
- The beautiful and often awesome colours produced by the trunk of the rainbow eucalyptus attract a lot of attention. Very little work seems to have been done to discover why the different colours are produced, however. Professor David Lee is a botany professor at Florida International University who has explored the production of colour in plants. Based on a brief investigation, h…
Cultivated and Introduced Trees
- Growing a Rainbow Eucalyptus
Rainbow eucalyptus trees can be an impressive landscaping element. The potential height and spread of a mature tree needs to be kept in mind if someone wants to grow one, however. The trees grow best in full sunlight and moist soil. They require a lot of water as well as warmth. If th… - Exploring the Trees in Hawaii
The trees grow well in Hawaii and are a tourist attraction in some locations in the state, including along the Hana Highway on the eastern side of Maui. The highway is famous for having over 600 curves and over 50 bridges, many of them with only one lane. I've never travelled along the high…
Potential Drawbacks to Growing The Plant
- There are some drawbacks to growing the trees. They can be messy because they frequently shed strips from their bark. They can also reach a large size and take up a lot of space. Their widespread roots may damage buildings and roads. Another problem is that it's impossible to predict how colourful a particular tree will become as it matures. The colours that the trunk deve…
References
- Information about Eucalyptus degluptafrom the Missouri Botanical Garden
- Rainbow eucalyptus facts from the California Polytechnic State University
- Eucalyptus oil information from WebMD
- Bark colour in the rainbow eucalyptus from sciencefriday.com (a radio show and website)