Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) is a tall, evergreen tree native to the eastern coastal regions of Australia, reaching heights of up to 45 meters. It is distinguished by its smooth, mottled bark that sheds in patches, revealing a cream, grey, or pinkish surface. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Spotted Gum plays a crucial role as a canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects. It is known for its drought resilience and ability to thrive in diverse soil types, making it a valuable component in ecosystem restoration projects. Historically, the indigenous peoples of Australia have utilized its durable timber for tools and construction. In guild design, it pairs well with understory plants like native grasses and shrubs that benefit from its shade and leaf litter, which enriches the soil.
Growing Details
Spotted Gum thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It prefers full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensure good drainage. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as native grasses and shrubs can enhance biodiversity and soil health. Common mistakes include overwatering young trees and planting in poo
Edible Parts
Tags
Keystone Specie Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Corymbia maculata</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Eastern coastal regions of Australia
applicable geo region: Australia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Harvest:
end
of November for 90 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of September
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(0/5)
medicinal uses:
health concerns:
other uses: The timber of Spotted Gum is highly prized for its strength and durability, used in construction, flooring, and furniture. The tree also produces a resin that can be used in varnishes and adhesives.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Corymbia maculata
common names: Spotted Gum; Spotted Ironbark; Lemon-scented
family: Myrtaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Corymbia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Medium
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(9/10)
first harvest: 10 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 45.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Spotted Gum thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It prefers full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensure good drainage. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as native grasses and shrubs can enhance biodiversity and soil health. Common mistakes include overwatering young trees and planting in poo
Potential Disturbances: Spotted Gum is generally resilient but can experience pressure from leaf-eating insects such as psyllids and fungal diseases in overly humid conditions. Natural pest management includes encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Companion planting with marigolds can help repel certain pests, and neem oil can be used as an organic spray for pest control.
Growth Timeline
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