Rainbow Gum (Eucalyptus deglupta) Information

The evergreen Rainbow Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Deglupta) is known as Rainbow Gum, Indonesian Gum, Mindanao Gum, Rainbow Eucalyptus, Bagras, Kamarere, gets its name from the distinctive streaks of green, red, orange, gray, and purple that run along its trunk and branches when the tannin-laden bark is peeled off.

Outside of the tropics, where it is native, the iridescence is usually not as pronounced. For the first year or two, it can produce clusters of small white flowers at different times of the year, depending on the location. It is popular in Hawaii and other places with humid, warm climates, where it is grown as a roadside tree and often provides shade. Read on to learn everything about this tree before you make a purchase and grow it in your beautiful garden and yard.

Eucalyptus Degulupta (Rainbow Gum) is a large evergreen tree known for its amazingly colorful bark and fast growth. The smooth orange bark peels off in summer, revealing multicolored stripes of blue, purple, orange, and maroon.

Young trees have a conical canopy with nearly horizontal branches. As the tree matures, the branches curve, the leader becomes inconspicuous, and the crown flattens out. The lanceolate leaves are about 15 cm long and aromatic when crushed.

Small white flowers bloom year-round, depending on the region. It is the only eucalypt native to the Northern Hemisphere. It is a major plantation tree for pulp production. It is also widely planted as an ornamental tree because of its beautiful bark. It is an excellent shade tree and requires ample growing space.

I. Rainbow Gum (Eucalyptus deglupta) Profile – An Overview of the plant

Common Name	Rainbow Eucalyptus, Rainbow Gum, Indonesian Gum, Mindanao Gum, Rainbow Eucalyptus, Bagras, Kamarere
Botanical Name	Eucalyptus Degluta
Native Area	Malesia, Papuasia
Family	Eucalyptus
Plant Type	Tree
Hardiness Zones	10 – 11
Growth Rate	Fast
Mature Height	60-80 ft.
Mature Width	20-30 ft.
Sun Exposure	Full sun
Bloom Time	Varies
Flower Color	White
Soil Type	Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH	Acid, Neutral
Water Needs	Average
Maintenance	Low

II. Appearance

Rainbow eucalyptus is an evergreen tree with spear-shaped silvery-green leaves and clusters of small white flowers. The most eye-catching part is the trunk, which grows iridescent bark with shades of green, blue, orange, red, and purple.

III. Growing and Care Conditions

It is this ever-changing rainbow of colors in the bark that is so mesmerizing to behold. There are no two trees with the same pattern, and no two trees look alike. When grown under ideal conditions, it can grow 5 to 8 feet in a year. It can also be intentionally kept small by pruning and limiting moisture.

Rainbow Eucalyptus is drought tolerant and will grow less than it will die. It requires full sun and adequate space. This tree is very disease resistant.

• Watering: Rainbow Eucalyptus saplings can tolerate some drought, but will require regular watering during the first year. It will not tolerate prolonged flooding or waterlogged conditions, but the moisture it retains will cause the trunk and bark to swell, revealing more distinct color stripes. Mulching around the tree will help retain moisture, but be careful not to apply mulch to the trunk.
• Sunlight Needed: Rainbow eucalyptus needs to be in full sun, so plant it in an area that receives unshaded light.
• Fertilizer: Rainbow eucalyptus does not need to be fed unless it is planted in very infertile soil. In addition, not fertilizing can slow down the notoriously fast growth rate of the eucalyptus.
• Soil Requirements: Grows in fertile, moist, well-drained, deep sandy, or loamy soils. It does not fare well in alkaline soils, preferring a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
• Temperature and Humidity: It grows better at temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and with higher humidity. Naturally, rainbow eucalyptus is susceptible to frost. Temperature, humidity, and ventilation have a significant effect on the color tone of the tannins in the bark.
• Planting: Plant in a sunny location where the tree will grow well. Planting the tree near a creek or pond is a great way to get all the water you need. Well-drained soil is important for the health of the tree. Rainbows can also tolerate some salt spray, humidity, and moisture.
• Pests and Diseases: As a relatively hardy tree, rainbow eucalyptus is not susceptible to leaf litter disease, which is common in humid and warm environments. It also has a tendency to shed its bark, which helps to eliminate certain parasites. However, in moist environments, it can develop root rot and is susceptible to Armillaria, a root fungus. Caddisflies and termites are also known to attack this broadleaf tree.

IV. Uses

Rainbow eucalyptus is commonly planted in some countries as pulpwood for paper and is also used as hardwood material for furniture.

It is also often used for decoration and landscaping of recreational facilities and gardens.

V. Why should you buy a Rainbow Gum (Eucalyptus deglupta)?

The Rainbow Eucalyptus, one of the most beautiful trees in the world, is indeed a beauty that is unmatched by any other tree. This bark starts out pastel green, then changes to orange, red, pastel blue, and sunset pink. This multi-colored stripe pattern is what makes the eucalyptus so unique.

Rainbow Eucalyptus can be a tall tree, but it can be trimmed and enjoyed as a patio plant or as a winter houseplant in a south-facing window. Either way, its gorgeous color, and refreshing eucalyptus fragrance can be enjoyed year-round, indoors or out.

What’s more, Rainbow Eucalyptus is very easy to grow because they are naturally resistant to pests and diseases. In addition, it grows quickly, growing up to 3 feet in a year, so you can enjoy its beauty right from the moment you plant it.