Variegated Eucalypts

Recently on Burke's Backyard we featured 'Summer Beauty' and 'Summer Red', wonderful hybrid gum trees developed specially for the home garden. They produce masses of flowers, and you always know exactly what colour the flowers will be. The good news is that there are also some exciting new varieties of eucalypts for gardeners who love plants with variegated foliage.

Variegated Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta 'Green and Gold')

The swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta) grows to about 25m (80') tall. It has rough, reddish brown bark and dark green, glossy leaves. It is commonly found growing near estuaries in marshy coastal areas. The new variegated form 'Green and Gold' is a much smaller tree, only growing about 5-8m (15-25') tall. Like the species it does well in moist soils.

Variegated Spotted Gum (Eucalyptus maculata 'Imagine')

Like the ordinary spotted gum (Eucalyptus maculata) 'Imagine' has a lovely smooth powdery white trunk often spotted in grey or pink. However it only grows to around 5-8m (15-25') while its parent may reach 45m (145'), and it is slightly more open in the crown than the species. 'Imagine' has variegated leaves with pinkish new growth. It will grow in most parts of Australia, and is worth a try in inland areas. It needs protection from frost.

Variegated Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus 'Paint Brush')

Lophostemon confertus, commonly known as the brush box, is a member of the Myrtaceae family, along with gum trees. It is very hardy and adaptable to a wide range of soils, and is often used as a street tree. Variegated varieties have been available in the past, but 'Paint Brush' is a new, more compact form about 5-8m (15-25') tall.  

Cost and Availability: Prices for these new variegated trees will be around $30 for 200mm (8") pots. Plants will be available later in the year but orders can be placed at NSW State Forests Nursery (02 9871 3222) where we filmed our segment, or at specialist native nurseries. These new plants are being grown by Toowoomba Wildflowers (wholesale nursery only). Garden centres and cut flower growers can contact Toowoomba Wildflowers direct for more information or to place wholesale orders.

Copyright CTC Productions 2000