Eucalyptus microtheca

Tiny-capsule Eucalyptus, Flooded Box, Coolibah Tree

Tree

This medium-sized evergreen tree reaches 35 to 40 feet (to 30 feet in caliche) with a slender, then spreading crown to 25 feet. Starts fast and then slows. Smaller than other species in this genus, it can be single- or multi-trunked. Young trees have smooth, mottled white to gray bark; older trees have wrinkled, cracked fibrous gray bark on the lower trunk.

Temperature

Foliage may burn in a hard freeze, but winter-hardened trees usually survive to 5F.

Water requirements

Drought tolerant. Give deep periodic irrigation until established. Can live on runoff water in areas of 10 to 12 inches of rain a year. In hot areas with no summer rain, needs monthly irrigation.

Sun

Full sun.

Soil

Widely tolerant. Deep soil and good drainage are needed for best results. Can become chlorotic in alkaline or poorly drained soils.

Maintenance

Cleaner and less likely to break in the wind than other Eucalyptus. Young trees need staking until strong vertical trunk develops.

Disadvantages

The leaves produce tannins that can stain pools. Doesn't grow well in lawns but will tolerate lawn conditions. Greedy, invasive roots.

Bloom

Insignificant

Fruit or Seeds

Insignificant

Uses

Specimen, row or grove. Excellent for shade, windbreaks or open areas.

Origin

A native of Australia; member of the Myrtaceae family.

Themes

Desert, Desert Transitional, Informal, Mediterranean, Fragrant

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