Mountain gum Eucalyptus dalrympleana

Water

Mountain gum, the common name for Eucalyptus dalrympleana, prefers consistent moisture especially when young, but is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Young trees benefit from watering once a week with about 10 gallons during dry periods, lessening to every two to four weeks for established trees, depending on weather conditions. It's essential not to overwater, so ensure the soil is well-drained, and the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. During winter or in cooler climates, reduce watering to match the reduced growth and evaporation rates.

Light

Mountain gum requires full sun to thrive, so it should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. An open, south-facing position with minimal to no shade is ideal for this eucalyptus species as it helps promote healthy growth and enhances the production of its aromatic oils.

Temperature

Mountain gum is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F but prefers a range of 60°F to 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive short periods of colder weather but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the tree. Protect young saplings from extreme cold, preferably situating them in places where they can receive some warmth from buildings or natural heat retention.

Pruning

For mountain gum, pruning is generally done to shape the young tree, remove damaged or diseased limbs, or to manage size. Prune during the tree's dormant period in the winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning should be done lightly and no more than once a year, as eucalyptus trees do not tolerate heavy pruning.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mountain Gum prefers well-draining soil with a liberal amount of organic matter and a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 5.5 and 7. The best soil mix can consist of 60% loam, 30% compost, and 10% perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regular monitoring and adjustment of the soil pH are recommended to maintain optimal conditions for growth.

Repotting

Mountain Gum should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to ensure it has enough space to grow. Younger trees may require more frequent repotting, as they grow quickly. Use the repotting as an opportunity to refresh the soil and check the root health.

Humidity & Misting

Mountain Gum thrives in moderate to low humidity conditions. It is an Australian native species that is well adapted to withstand dry air. There is no specific humidity level required, but it is important to avoid overly humid conditions to prevent issues such as fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, use well-draining soil, and keep it cool.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, protect from strong winds, mulch well.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Eucalyptus dalrympleana, commonly known as Mountain Gum, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically following fire or soil disturbance. The seeds require exposure to sunlight and are often dependent on fire to reduce competition and release seeds from their woody capsules. After germination, the seedling stage is characterized by rapid growth, with the plant investing energy in both root and shoot development to establish itself. During the sapling stage, Mountain Gum prioritizes height growth to reach the sunlight and outcompete other vegetation. As a mature tree, it reaches reproductive age and develops flowers; pollination is generally carried out by birds and insects. Finally, the mature Mountain Gum continuously produces seeds that are held in woody capsules until they are released by environmental triggers, such as the heat from the next fire, repeating the cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Eucalyptus dalrympleana, commonly known as Mountain Gum, is through the use of seeds. Ideal propagation time is late winter to early spring when temperatures are moderate. Seeds are first collected from ripe fruit, which release them as the fruit dries. No pretreatment of the seeds is necessary. They are directly sown onto the surface of a well-draining seed raising mix and lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. The seed raising tray is then kept moist and in a warm spot, but not in direct sunlight, to encourage germination. Germination typically occurs within two to four weeks. Seedlings are allowed to grow until they reach a sufficient size and can be transplanted outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.