Messmate Stringybark
Eucalyptus obliqua · Myrtaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around messmate stringybark and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (cream white)
- Adult size
- 25–45 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (−5 to −10 °C)
- Origin
- South-Eastern Australia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Light Exposure
Eucalyptus obliqua demands full sun to thrive fully. Install it in a location receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. In shade, its growth slows down and its habit becomes less vigorous.
Watering
Once established, this eucalyptus is drought-tolerant thanks to its deep root system. Water regularly during the first year to encourage establishment. Then reduce watering, except during prolonged dry spells.
Soil and Drainage
Favour well-drained, light soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Eucalyptus obliqua dreads root asphyxiation: absolutely avoid heavy soils and waterlogged areas. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage if needed.
Pruning and Training
Pruning is not essential, but you can guide its habit when young to encourage regular branching. Remove dead or diseased branches as the seasons progress. Avoid severe pruning that destabilizes the tree.
Fertiliser
Undemanding in nutrients, this eucalyptus generally thrives on the natural nutrient content of the soil. A light annual application of balanced fertiliser in spring can support its growth, particularly on poor soils.
Diseases and Pests
Eucalyptus obliqua is generally resistant. Watch for the appearance of scale insects or spider mites in hot, dry climates, as well as certain fungi in case of stagnant moisture. Good air circulation and adequate drainage prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Eucalyptus obliqua, called 'Stringybark' in English, produces a distinctive fibrous bark that naturally delaminates, giving the tree a particular appearance. In Australia, this bark has long served as material for roofing and Indigenous constructions. Some old individuals can reach 60 metres and live for several centuries, becoming forest patriarchs of their ecosystem.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Blue gumEucalyptus globulus
- MyrtleMyrtus communis
- MānukaLeptospermum scoparium
- Strawberry guavaPsidium cattleianum
- Snow gumEucalyptus pauciflora
- Woolly TeatreeLeptospermum lanigerum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.