Eucalyptus viminalis aka Manna Gum

Eucalyptus viminalis is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family. Its common names include manna gum, ribbon gum and white gum. It comes from eastern and southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. Its range reaches from southeastern Queensland through several southern states. It grows in cool, moist sites, often on fertile soils. In New South Wales, it forms part of grassy woodland and forest.

This fast-growing tree has a large, open crown. Garden references give a height of 98 feet [30 metres]. They give a spread of about 49 feet [15 metres]. Other accounts describe trees reaching 164 feet [50 metres]. Rare wild trees reach 295 feet [90 metres]. The trunk can reach about 4 feet [1.2 metres] across. Its bark sheds and breaks into strips. The tree keeps its leaves throughout the year. Its fruit takes the form of seed capsules.

Plants For A Future lists flowering from July to August. Flowers have both male and female parts, and bees pollinate them. The tree also draws other insects and wildlife. Give it full sun, since it cannot grow in shade. It prefers soil that holds moisture but drains well. Sandy, loamy and clay soils can all suit it. It accepts mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline ground. It also tolerates poor soil and drought once established.

Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 7–10. Reports of frost tolerance differ, so cold hardiness remains uncertain. Some accounts report survival between −15°C and −20°C. Others warn that hard frost can kill plants. Young trees need cold protection during their first winter. Growers plant this species for shade and as an ornamental. Its wood serves building, joinery and other timber uses. Plantings also help hold soil in place. Bark gum has served as an adhesive.

Insect damage can cause sweet manna to form on leaves. Some reports also place this material on the bark. Aboriginal Australians gathered fallen manna or scraped it from leaves. They also pounded and baked leaves coated with it. The manna can have a mild laxative effect. Sources record medicinal uses for the leaves and leafy twigs. These records do not establish that home remedies are safe. The supplied species accounts name no specific pests or diseases.