Blakely’s Red Gum: A Majestic Australian Tree for Large Landscapes
If you’ve got space to spare and are looking for a tree that makes a real statement, Eucalyptus blakelyi might just catch your eye. This impressive Australian native, commonly known as Blakely’s Red Gum, brings a touch of the Outback to gardens around the world – though it’s definitely not a tree for everyone.
What is Blakely’s Red Gum?
Blakely’s Red Gum is a medium to large eucalyptus tree that hails from eastern Australia, particularly New South Wales and southern Queensland. Like many eucalyptus species, it’s known for its distinctive bark that creates an ever-changing canvas of colors and textures as it naturally sheds and renews itself.
This tree isn’t just big – it’s really big. We’re talking about a mature specimen that can reach 50 to 80 feet tall with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. That’s roughly the size of a small office building, so you’ll want to think carefully about placement!
The Good, The Bad, and The Beautiful
Why you might love it:
- Stunning mottled bark in cream, grey, and pink tones that looks like natural artwork
- Provides excellent shade once mature
- Extremely drought tolerant – perfect for water-wise gardening
- Attracts beneficial insects with its nectar-rich flowers
- Fast-growing, so you won’t wait decades to see results
- Creates a distinctive windbreak for large properties
Why you might want to think twice:
- Requires enormous amounts of space – not suitable for typical suburban lots
- Can drop branches and bark, creating maintenance issues
- Root system can be aggressive and may interfere with structures or pipes
- Not native to North America, so doesn’t support local wildlife ecosystems as effectively
- May not be cold-hardy in all regions
Growing Conditions and Care
Blakely’s Red Gum is surprisingly low-maintenance once established, but getting it started right is crucial:
Climate requirements: This tree thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, which means it’s best suited for warmer climates. If you experience regular freezing temperatures, this probably isn’t the tree for you.
Sunlight: Full sun is non-negotiable. This tree needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive.
Soil: Well-draining soil is essential – eucalyptus trees hate soggy feet. They’re quite adaptable to different soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as water doesn’t pool around the roots.
Water: Here’s where this tree really shines. Once established (usually after the first year), it’s incredibly drought tolerant. During establishment, provide regular deep watering, but don’t overdo it.
Planting and Maintenance Tips
Plant young trees in spring after the last frost. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper – you want the root crown at soil level. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root development.
Pruning should be minimal and done carefully. Remove only dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Heavy pruning can stimulate excessive growth and actually weaken the tree’s structure.
Consider Native Alternatives
While Blakely’s Red Gum can be a striking addition to the right landscape, consider whether a native tree might better serve your local ecosystem. Large native shade trees like oak species, maples, or hickories can provide similar benefits while supporting local wildlife and requiring less water once established in their natural range.
The Bottom Line
Blakely’s Red Gum is a spectacular tree for the right situation – namely, a large property in a warm climate where you want a fast-growing, drought-tolerant shade tree with unique visual appeal. But it’s definitely not a plant it and forget it choice for most gardeners. If you have the space and climate for it, this Australian beauty can be a stunning centerpiece. If not, you’ll be much happier with a more appropriately sized native alternative.
Remember, the key to successful gardening is matching the right plant to the right place – and sometimes that means admiring a beautiful tree from afar rather than trying to squeeze it into an unsuitable space!
