Eucalyptus viminalis
manna gum
Overview
Eucalyptus viminalis is a tall evergreen tree commonly reaching 65-130 feet (20-40 m) and occasionally taller, with a straight trunk and an open, spreading crown. The bark is smooth and white to cream over most of the trunk, often with rough, persistent bark at the base, and it sheds in long ribbons that hang from the branches and collect below. Adult leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) long, glossy green and held on both sides of the shoot; juvenile leaves are narrower and stalkless. White flowers open in groups of three from summer into autumn, each about 0.4 inch (1 cm) across, followed by small woody capsules. A sugary substance called manna forms where insects damage the leaves and falls as white flakes. The tree grows along rivers, on flats, and in cool hill forest, and is a food source for koalas. Growth is fast on moist sites, and large trees develop a deep, spreading root system. Branches can shed in storms or drought.
Native Range
Eucalyptus viminalis is native to south-eastern Australia, from Queensland through New South Wales and Victoria to Tasmania and South Australia. It grows along watercourses, on valley flats, and in cool montane forest, on moist, fertile soils, often forming tall stands in high-rainfall districts.Suggested Uses
Eucalyptus viminalis is planted in parks, large rural gardens, shelterbelts, and revegetation along watercourses, spaced 30-50 feet (9-15 m) apart. It is grown as habitat and food for koalas and nectar-feeding wildlife. Its large size, litter, and branch drop make it unsuited to small gardens or planting near buildings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height65' - 130'
Width/Spread30' - 50'
Bloom Information
White flowers open from summer into autumn (January to April), with timing varying across the wide range. Each tree flowers heavily in some years and lightly in others. The flowers draw bees, birds, and other insects, and small woody capsules follow over the months after.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight