Corymbia ficifolia is a tree from the Myrtaceae family of plants. It is native to Western Australia. They also call it the Red Flowering Gum, Gum Tree, Flowering Gum, Scarlet Gum, Flame Eucalyptus, Scarlet Eucalyptus, or Eucalyptus ficifolia. The name refers to the corymbs of the flowers, and ficifolia refers to the similarity of the leaves to Ficus.
Corymbia ficifolia grows to about 33ft or 10m tall. It has rough bark, and the leaves are broad, egg-shaped, glossy, dark green, and lance-shaped. It has bright red clusters of flowers that bloom in the summer. The seeds of Corymbia ficifolia have wings, and the fruit is rather large and barrel-shaped, unlike another eucalyptus.
Ferdinand von Mueller (1825-1896, a German-Australian botanist, named it Eucalyptus ficifolia in 1860, in his book Fragmenta Phytographiae Australiae. Ken Hill (1948-2010), the Australian botanist, and Lawrence Alexander Sidney Johnson (1925-1997), also an Australian botanist, changed the name to Corymbia ficifolia in 1995.
How to grow Corymbia ficifolia:
Sunlight and Shade: Plant Corymbia ficifolia in a location that receives full sun or light shade. This tree thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which promotes optimal flowering and overall health.
Soil Requirements: Corymbia ficifolia prefers well-drained soil that ranges from dry to moist. It has excellent drought tolerance and can also withstand some salt in the soil. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Pest and Disease Control: While Corymbia ficifolia is generally pest-free and disease-free, it’s important to remain vigilant. Watch out for potential issues such as beetle borers, thrips, armillaria (honey fungus), or Phytophthora. Regular inspections and appropriate pest management measures, such as using insecticidal sprays or organic pest control methods, can help maintain the tree’s health.
Propagation Challenges: Corymbia ficifolia can be challenging to propagate from cuttings. It is best propagated from seeds, but keep in mind that this method may result in some variation in flower color. Flowers can range from vibrant shades of red and orange to beautiful pink hues. If you desire specific flower colors, obtaining grafted plants from reputable nurseries can provide more reliable results.
Regular Maintenance: Once established, Corymbia ficifolia requires minimal maintenance. Pruning should be limited to removing any dead or damaged branches. Avoid excessive pruning, as it can reduce flowering potential.
Environmental Considerations: This tree is well-suited for gardens in warm and temperate regions. It thrives in a Mediterranean climate but may not tolerate extremely cold temperatures. Protect young trees from frost until they are well-established.
By providing Corymbia ficifolia with the appropriate growing conditions, monitoring for pests and diseases, and following proper maintenance practices, you can enjoy the beauty of its vibrant flowers and the natural splendor it brings to your landscape.
