Spectacular small Western Australian eucalypt to 10 m with broad rounded crown and massive terminal clusters of brilliant scarlet (or pink, orange, white) flowers in summer. The most widely planted ornamental eucalypt worldwide.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 9–11 | −6.7 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H3 | −5 °C to 1 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 4–6 | 0 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Endemic to a tiny coastal area of southwestern Western Australia near Walpole — IUCN listed as Vulnerable in the wild
- Formerly Eucalyptus ficifolia, now classified as Corymbia ficifolia
- Modern grafted cultivars (Calypso, Summer Red, Wildfire) provide controlled flower colour — seed-grown plants give variable results
- Demanding in humid summer climates — best in southern Australian, Mediterranean, and Californian conditions
Pet caution: Red flowering gum is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Red flowering gum against your zones