Gum Trees: A Comprehensive Guide
What are Gum Trees?
Gum trees are a diverse group of tree species belonging to the myrtle (Myrtaceae) family. The majority of gum species fall under the genus Eucalyptus, while others belong to Angophora and Corymbia. These trees are native to Australia and are known for their distinctive bark, which is often shaggy or stringy. Some species have smooth bark, while others have lance-shaped leaves with a strong menthol scent.
Uses of Gum Trees
Gum trees have a wide range of uses, both practical and aesthetic.
- Landscaping: Gum trees are popular shade trees and specimen trees in gardens and parks.
- Medicinal: Oils extracted from gum tree leaves are used in various medications.
- Timber: The wood of some gum trees is valuable for lumber.
- Honey production: Bees collect nectar from gum tree blossoms to produce honey.
- Wildlife habitat: Gum trees provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including koalas.
Gum Trees in the Landscape
When choosing a gum tree for your landscape, consider its size, shape, and hardiness. Some species, such as the blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), can grow over 100 feet tall, while others, such as the dwarf apple (Angophora hispida), are much smaller. Some gum trees are well-suited to cold climates, while others thrive in warm, dry climates.
Popular Gum Tree Species
Here are some of the most popular gum tree species for gardens:
- Blue Gum (Eucalyptus globulus): A towering tree with blue-green leaves and a distinctive menthol scent.
- Dwarf Apple (Angophora hispida): A smaller gum tree with red bristles on its stems and new leaves.
- Lemon-Scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora): A tall tree with lemon-scented leaves and white to pinkish-copper bark.
- Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis): A tree with smooth, powdery bark that comes off in strips.
- Rainbow Gum (Eucalyptus deglupta): A unique tree with spectacular bark that peels away to reveal hues of green, yellow, and purplish-brown.
- Red Cap Gum (Eucalyptus erythrocorys): A relatively small gum tree with a low, spreading canopy and large, bell-shaped fruit.
- Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia): A tree with bright red, pink, or orange flowers that appear in winter and spring.
- Salmon Gum (Eucalyptus salmonophloia): A tree with smooth, salmon-colored bark during the summer.
- Silver Dollar Gum (Eucalyptus cinerea): A fast-growing tree with juvenile sprigs that are often used in floral design.
- Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma): A tree with attractive, twisted branches and squiggly lines in its bark.
- Snow Gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora): A tree that can survive in cold regions and has smooth white, gray, or yellow bark.
- Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata): A large tree with lemon-scented leaves and distinctive spotted bark.
Gum Trees: A Valuable Resource
Gum trees are a valuable resource, providing a range of benefits for both humans and wildlife. Their diverse uses, from landscaping to medicinal purposes, make them a popular choice for gardens and parks around the world. By understanding the different types of gum trees and their unique characteristics, you can choose the perfect species to enhance your landscape and enjoy the many benefits these trees have to offer.
Additional Information
- Are gum trees the same as eucalyptus trees?
Yes, eucalyptus trees make up the majority of gum tree species. However, not all eucalyptus trees are gum trees.
- How can you identify a gum tree?
The most distinguishing characteristic of a gum tree is its pronounced, often shaggy or stringy bark. Gum tree leaves may also have a distinctive menthol scent when crushed.
- Are there any gum trees that grow in the U.S.?
Yes, some types of eucalyptus trees grow in Hawaii and California.
- Are gum trees used to make chewing gum?
No, chewing gum is not made from gum trees. It is made from a combination of resins from trees such as spruces, sweeteners, and other synthetic fillers.