- Mature height
- 10m to 20m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 6m to 10m
Eucalyptus polyanthemos, the Red Box, is an Australian native tree with a dense canopy, textured fibrous bark, and distinctive blue-grey foliage. It gives structure and soft colour to a wide range of landscapes.
Red Box grows to 10-15 metres tall and 6-10 metres wide. Soft rounded juvenile leaves give way to elliptical silver-blue adult foliage that contrasts beautifully with stone and timber. Creamy-white flower clusters appear in spring to early summer, attracting bees, birds, and other pollinators. The size suits feature planting, habitat gardens, rural windbreaks, and streetscapes.
Red Box thrives in full sun and adapts to most well-drained soils. It is highly drought tolerant once established and very low maintenance, with rough grey-brown bark adding texture and character year-round. It performs well across NSW, VIC, ACT and parts of SA.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Eucalyptus polyanthemos Red Box
How tall does Red Box grow?
Eucalyptus polyanthemos grows to 10-15 metres tall and 6-10 metres wide with a dense canopy.
How fast does Red Box grow?
Red Box has a moderate growth rate, adding 40-60cm per year once established.
What colour is Red Box foliage?
Red Box has distinctive blue-grey foliage. Soft rounded juvenile leaves mature into elliptical silver-blue adult leaves.
Is Red Box an Australian native?
Yes. Eucalyptus polyanthemos is native to south-eastern Australia, found across NSW, VIC, and the ACT.
When does Red Box flower?
Red Box produces creamy-white flower clusters in spring to early summer, attracting bees, birds, and other pollinators.
Is Red Box drought tolerant?
Yes. Red Box is highly drought tolerant once established and very low maintenance.
Where does Red Box grow best in Australia?
Red Box thrives across NSW, VIC, ACT and parts of SA in full sun with well-drained soil, tolerating heat and drought.