Eucalyptus ovata
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Eucalyptus ovata

Marrawah gum · Large-flower swamp gum · Black gum · Blue-leaf sally · White gum

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
15–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 8–11
Click count
156
Observations
15

Description

Source: leafsnap

Eucalyptus ovata, commonly known as the Swamp Gum or Black Gum, is a eucalyptus tree species native to southeastern Australia. This medium-sized tree can reach heights of up to 30 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. Its bark is smooth and greyish-brown, shedding in long ribbons. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, growing up to 15 centimeters long and 7 centimeters wide. White or cream-colored flowers appear in clusters from autumn through winter. Eucalyptus ovata thrives in moist soils such as those found in swamps, riverbanks, or wetlands, although it can also tolerate drier conditions. It is widely planted for its timber, which is used in construction for flooring, furniture making, and paper production. The essential oil extracted from the leaves of Eucalyptus ovata has medicinal properties and has traditionally been used to treat respiratory problems such as coughs and colds. Its antiseptic properties also make it useful for treating wounds. Overall, Eucalyptus ovata is an ecologically and economically significant species. It thrives in wetland environments while providing valuable timber resources and medicinal benefits from its essential oil.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Swamp gum flourishes in consistently moist conditions and needs plenty of water, especially during its early growth stages. To ensure proper hydration, water the plant deeply but allow the top third of the soil to dry out before watering again. It is helpful to use a moisture meter to check when the soil is dry. The best times to water are early in the morning or at night.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full sun

Swamp gum comes from open habitats, like sunlit meadows and forest margins, that offer abundant light. It does best in full sun but can withstand partial sun, adapting well to different light conditions.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for Swamp Gum (Eucalyptus ovata)?

Swamp Gum (Eucalyptus ovata) thrives in conditions where it can receive full sun, which is defined as more than 6 hours of sunlight a day. However, it can also tolerate partial sun, needing about 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. It's important to observe the movement of sunlight through your garden to find the ideal location for your plant. This ensures they receive the right balance of light and shade, contributing to their overall happiness and growth.

🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C

Swamp gum is highly adaptable to a variety of climate conditions, handling both very hot summers and cold winters. Nevertheless, it has an optimal temperature range for growth. If temperatures become too high, the plant is vulnerable to heat and humidity stress, which can lead to its death. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of its cold tolerance, it is important to use insulation measures to protect the plant.

Ideal temperature: 15–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Fertilize your Swamp gum in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Consistent feeding improves overall health, leading to vigorous growth, increased tolerance of challenging conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and diseases. Keep to a regular fertilization schedule for your Swamp gum to maintain vibrant, deeply colored, and lush foliage.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Swamp gum should be pruned every year during its dormant period, which is from early to late winter. The goal is to remove dead branches and enhance airflow around the tree. Key techniques include thinning the inner growth and shaping the tree to create a strong structure. Regular maintenance like this helps the tree resist diseases and supports healthy growth. It ensures that the swamp gum develops with well-spaced branches, allowing for optimal light and air penetration.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Eucalyptus
Family
Myrtaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
14.94 m to 29.87 m
Mature Spread
10.06 m to 20.12 m
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Gray
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter

Tags (6)

Common Names (10)

en Marrawah gum
en Large-flower swamp gum
en Black gum
en Blue-leaf sally
en White gum
en Swamp gum
en Messmate
en Wollybutt
en Apple tree
en Peppermint