- Mature height
- 30m to 50m
- Mature width
- 10m to 15m
Eucalyptus viminalis, the manna gum, is a tall Australian native with smooth white to cream bark that peels in long ribbons and hangs from the upper branches. The leaves are long, narrow and mid green, and white flowers open through summer and autumn. The trunk is straight beneath a graceful, open canopy.
Full sun suits it, and so does anything from clay through to loam. It survives heavy and frequent frost undamaged, grows quickly once away, and handles dry periods after the first couple of seasons. Cool temperate and temperate districts across Victoria, Tasmania, southern New South Wales and the Adelaide Hills give the best results.
In good conditions it reaches 30 to 50 metres, so it belongs on rural properties, in shelterbelts, along wide avenues, in parks and in habitat restoration where koalas and possums feed in it. Keep it well clear of buildings and services. Few trees deliver this much shade and habitat value in so little time.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Manna Gum
What is Eucalyptus viminalis?
Manna gum is a tall Australian native eucalypt with smooth white to cream bark that peels in long ribbons and hangs from the branches, which is where its other common name, ribbon gum, comes from. Leaves are long, narrow and mid green, and white flowers open through summer and autumn. It is evergreen and fast growing.
How big does Manna Gum grow?
On deep, moist soil it reaches 30 to 50 metres, which puts it among the tallest trees you can plant. The canopy is broad and open in proportion, carried on a straight trunk. On drier or shallower ground it finishes considerably lower, but it should still be planned for as a large scale tree.
Is it frost tolerant?
Yes. It survives heavy and frequent frost without damage, which is why it occurs naturally through the cold tablelands and high country of Victoria, Tasmania and southern New South Wales. Young trees establish best when planted in spring, rather than going into the ground just ahead of their first winter.
Is it evergreen or deciduous?
Evergreen. Foliage is held year round, so the tree gives continuous shelter and shade. It does shed bark in long ribbons and drops older leaves through summer, so it produces steady litter and is better placed away from pools, gutters and paved entertaining areas than close to them.
How far apart should I plant it for a windbreak?
For a shelterbelt, 4 to 6 metres apart within the row, with rows staggered if you are planting more than one. For an avenue, 3 metres apart gives an even line, though allow more where full canopy development matters. This is not a hedging plant, so do not space it at hedge distances.
Is it suitable for a small suburban garden?
Generally no. At 30 to 50 metres with a vigorous root system it needs open ground, well clear of houses, sheds, fences and services. It belongs on rural blocks, in parks and on wide road reserves. For a smaller block, a compact gum such as a snow gum selection is the better answer.
How do I care for Manna Gum?
Water through the first two summers, mulch widely and keep grass off the root zone while it establishes. Remove competing leaders early so the tree builds one straight trunk. Prune in late winter for clearance only. Fertiliser is rarely needed, though a low phosphorus native feed helps young trees on poor soil.