Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree Care

Rainbow eucalyptus (Mindanao gum) is the only eucalyptus tree indigenous to the northern hemisphere. Found mainly in the Philippines, New Guinea, and Indonesia, it thrives in tropical forests that get a lot of rain — which also makes it the only eucalyptus tree to grow in the rainforest. The tree grows up to massive 250 feet (76 m.) tall in its native environment. In the US, rainbow eucalyptus grows in the frost-free climates found in Hawaii and the southern portions of California, Texas and Florida. However, in the continental US, the tree only grows to heights of 60 to 125 feet (30-38 m.). Because of their fast growth rate and size, choose a site that is far enough away from structures, foundations, power lines, and drainage systems as the sprawling roots could cause problems.

As rainbow eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta) sheds its bark, it reveals a neon green inner layer. Over time, as this layer is exposed to air, it ages into different colors—bright reds, oranges, blues, pinks and purples. The different colors appear as different layers fall off, while other exposed areas begin aging. This process creates a spectacular visual, resembling a multi-colored crayon scratch drawing, covered with black crayon that is then scraped away to reveal the multi-colors underneath. 

 Botanical Name: Eucalyptus deglupta

 Common Name: Rainbow eucalyptus, rainbow gum, Mindanao gum

 Family: Myrtaceae

 Plant Type: Tree

 Mature Size: 60-80 ft. tall, 20-30 ft. wide

 Sun Exposure: Full sun

 Soil Type: Moist but well-drained

 Soil pH: Acid, Neutral

 Hardiness Zones: 9-11, USA

 Native Area: Malaysia and Papuasia

Light

Rainbow eucalyptus trees need plenty of sun, so plant in a position with access to unfiltered light.

Soil

This species thrives in deep sandy, loamy soils that are fertile, moist, and well-drained. It doesn't appreciate high alkalinity in the soil, fairing better with neutral to slightly acidic pH levels.

Water

Although established rainbow eucalyptus trees can tolerate some drought, they need regular watering during their first year. The trees can't handle prolonged flooding or waterlogged conditions, but keeping them moist will encourage the trunk and the bark to swell, encouraging more defined color stripes. 

Temperature and Humidity

These trees grow best in temperatures of around 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and appreciate high humidity levels. Unsurprisingly, rainbow eucalyptus trees are not tolerant of frosts. Temperature, humidity, and airflow all have a considerable influence on how distinct the coloration of the tannins in the tree bark will be. Rainbow Eucalyptus is hardy down to 30°F when mature, but young trees (4 years and younger) need special care when temperatures drop below 36°F. Cover for frost and use a heater as well if temperatures are freezing, below 32°F.

Fertilizer

Unless you plant your rainbow eucalyptus tree in highly infertile soil, it shouldn't need feeding. Rainbows aren't fond of phosphorus—plus, without fertilizer, you can slow down their infamously fast growth rate. I like to use a standard 6-6-6 or 6-8-8 granulated fertilizer 

Pruning

When it comes to pruning your tree, the best time to do this is in late summer. While there is bleeding sap, the wounds heal fast in warm weather. 

Also, it depends on how your tree is, and with large wounds, you can apply a dressing to help it heal faster. Finally, avoid pruning when the humidity level is high as it can lead to diseases in the trees.

Here are three methods on how you can prune your eucalyptus trees:

• Specimen pruning is excellent to help your tree look attractive in landscaping. Yet, do not cut the lower branches up to six feet to do this. Instead, wait for about two seasons of growth as the tree still sheds its old leaves.

• Coppicing helps if you grow your rainbow eucalyptus indoors to control the height. It is best if you did angle cuts by pruning back 18 inches from the base to remove the side shoots. If your tree has leggy growth, you can cut up to six inches from the ground.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

Rainbow eucalyptus trees are relatively hardy but are sometimes prone to leaf spot disease, which is common in humid, warm environments. A fungicide, such as Daconil, applied every 2 weeks for about a month will usually end it. I apply this 3 times per year during the hot, humid months. Their peeling bark also helps them get rid of certain parasites. However, they can suffer from root rot in waterlogged conditions and are susceptible to the root fungus Armillaria. Beetle borers and termites have also been known to attack this hardwood tree.

Other Concerns

• Leaves have a brown hue – this can result from the collar, crown, foot, or root rot. To help with these diseases, you can use Neem oil and prevent overwatering your plant.

• Yellowing leaves result from overwatering or too much humidity. You need to cut back on your watering or move your plant into an area with lower humidity.

• Drying out of your plant can mean many things. For example, if you snap one branch off and it is still a bit green, it is good, but if it breaks fast, you have an issue. This is because your plant lacks nutrients, or you have recently transplanted it and going through root shock. Another cause is that the greenery is root-bound and cannot take up all the water.

• Curling leaves is a sign of distress and giving them a misting help. If it does not work, it can also be root stress from repotting.

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