- Mature height
- 7m to 15m
- Mature width
- 4m to 8m
Tristaniopsis laurina, the Water Gum, is a small to medium-sized Australian native valued for its compact form, glossy foliage, and attractive bark. The smooth bark sheds in patches in shades of grey, cream and orange, creating genuine year-round interest.
Water Gum grows to 7-12 metres tall and 4-7 metres wide, with glossy lance-shaped leaves arranged densely along the branches to form a neat rounded canopy. Its manageable size, tidy form, and non-invasive roots make it a reliable choice for feature planting, street and avenue use, parks, and civic landscapes. Clusters of nectar-rich yellow star-shaped flowers appear in summer.
Water Gum grows at a moderate rate and is well adapted to a wide range of soils, including those prone to occasional wetness. It is evergreen, hardy, and tolerant of light frost once established, performing best in full sun to part shade with only occasional pruning to shape when young. The flowers attract birds, bees, and other pollinators.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Tristaniopsis laurina Water Gum
How tall does Water Gum grow?
Tristaniopsis laurina grows to 7-12 metres tall and 4-7 metres wide with a dense rounded canopy, though it is often smaller in cultivation.
How fast does Water Gum grow?
Water Gum has a moderate growth rate of 40-60cm per year once established.
Is Water Gum an Australian native?
Yes. Tristaniopsis laurina is native to eastern Australia, naturally found along watercourses and rivers from QLD through to VIC.
When does Water Gum flower?
Water Gum produces clusters of fragrant yellow flowers in late spring and summer, typically November to January, attracting native bees and pollinators.
Is Water Gum suitable for street planting?
Yes. Water Gum is widely used by Australian councils as a street tree thanks to its tidy form, non-invasive roots, glossy foliage, and tolerance of urban conditions.
What does the bark look like?
Water Gum has attractive smooth bark that sheds in patches to reveal fresh cream, grey and tan tones beneath, adding year-round interest.
Where does Water Gum grow best in Australia?
Water Gum thrives across NSW, QLD, VIC and SA, tolerating coastal exposure, urban pollution, and a wide range of soils once established.