Eucalyptus camaldulensis aka Murray Red Gum

Eucalyptus camaldulensis is also called river red gum. This tree comes from Australia and stays green year-round. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. It grows wild in all of Australia's mainland states. It often grows by streams, in sandy or heavy soils. Growers plant it for timber and for its looks. Its wide crown suits large gardens and avenues.

This tree grows fast. In gardens, it reaches about 66–98 feet [20–30 metres]. The RHS lists a spread of over 26 feet [8 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants says some trees reach 164 feet [50 metres]. Virginia Tech gives an extreme height of 200 feet [61 metres]. Trees grown in the open have thick trunks and wide crowns. Trees in plantations can have tall trunks with few low branches. The bark sheds in strips, which may pile up below. Smooth parts have cream, grey, pink, or greenish patches. Rough, dark bark may stay near the base.

Young leaves are broad and shaped like a lance. They have a blue-green hue. Adult leaves grow more narrow. They may stay blue-green or turn green. They can reach about one foot [0.3 metres] long. The tough, leathery leaves give off a smell when crushed. They may curve or droop. Thin twigs range from yellow-green to red. White flowers grow in groups. Woody, egg-shaped seed cases, called capsules, follow the flowers. The RHS records bloom from midwinter through late summer. Other sources give winter, early spring, or summer as bloom times. Bees and other insects pollinate the flowers.

Grow this tree in full sun, out of cold winds. The RHS calls for rich soil that drains well. It recommends an acid or neutral pH. Sand and loam suit garden planting. Its UK hardiness rating is H3, for mild or coastal areas. PFAF lists USDA zones 8–12. The RHS gives 20–50 years as the time to reach maturity. Its size and form suit bold planting in large grounds. Sources also list coastal gardens and those with a Mediterranean style. Growers use it for belts of trees that give shelter. They also use it for timber, fuel, and to protect soil.

Eucalyptus gall wasp and eucalyptus sucker may attack this tree. Silver leaf, honey fungus, and oedema are other possible problems. PFAF lists the tiny seeds as edible but gives few details. It also notes uses for gum, tannin, and essential oil. Aboriginal people have used the leaves as medicine. Sources list uses as medicine, but do not show safe home use. PFAF warns that swallowing eucalyptus oil can cause severe poisoning.