Eucalyptus grandis aka Saligna Gum

Eucalyptus grandis is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family. Its common names include flooded gum and rose gum. It comes from eastern Australia, in Queensland and northern New South Wales. It grows in tall, open forests on sheltered slopes and valleys. Some stands contain few other tree species. Farther south, it grows in deep, fertile valleys and beside rainforests.

This fast-growing tree needs space to reach its full size. Published heights are about 131–180 feet [40–55 metres]. Exceptional trees reach 246 feet [75 metres]. One source gives a spread of 131 feet [40 metres]. The crown spreads widely but has rather sparse growth. The straight, round trunk lacks branches along much of its length. Most bark is smooth and has a powdery surface. Bark near the base is rough, with fibres or flakes.

The glossy, dark green leaves grow alternately along the branches. White flowers form groups of seven to eleven. Bees and other insects pollinate them, and the tree is self-fertile. The fruit takes the form of seed capsules. Sources do not give a flowering season. Growers raise trees from seed and from cuttings of young seedlings. Seed compost must stay moist while the seeds sprout. Young plants lose their ability to root from cuttings as they grow.

Flooded gum suits warm, humid tropical and subtropical sites. It grows in sun or light shade. It accepts sandy, loamy, or clay soils with good drainage. Its soil pH range runs from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. PFAF lists USDA zones 9–11 and dry to moist soils. Frost tolerance depends on how fast the air cools. Gradual cooling may allow survival at 27°F [−3°C]. A sudden drop to that level can cause severe harm.

People plant this tree in parks, large gardens, and windbreaks. It also supplies wood, paper pulp, fuel, and charcoal. Its leaves yield essential oil with activity against mosquito larvae. The wood resists dry-wood borers, but termites can attack it. Trees beside avocado orchards can lower yields through shade and competition. PFAF records no known edible uses. It reports branch-tip preparations used for constipation, not proof of safe treatment. The supplied sources give no clear species-level toxicity assessment.