Candlebark Tree
Eucalyptus rubida
Also known as Candlebark, Candlebark Gum, Ribbon Gum
Climate Match for your location
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A medium-sized eucalyptus native to southeastern Australia with smooth, colorful bark that exfoliates in patches to reveal creamy, pink, or reddish inner bark. It produces white or cream flowers in fall and maintains an attractive open canopy year-round.
Why grow it
Eucalyptus rubida offers reliable ornamental appeal through exfoliating bark and consistent flowering, with a smaller mature size (typically 30-50 feet) than many eucalypts, making it more manageable in moderate-sized landscapes. Compared to other smooth-barked species like E. dalrympleana, it tends to produce more vibrant color contrasts in the exposed inner bark. Its open canopy structure allows dappled light penetration useful in permaculture systems with understory plantings.
Watch out for
Seedlings and young trees can be brittle and require staking or windbreak protection until established, particularly in exposed sites. The prolific self-seeding and fast growth rate means regular monitoring may be needed to prevent volunteer seedlings from dominating planting areas, especially in favorable microclimates. Soil moisture needs are moderate but consistent, and the tree can struggle in poorly draining soils or sustained drought conditions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Myrtaceae
Native Range
southeastern Australia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A medium-sized eucalyptus native to southeastern Australia with smooth, colorful bark that exfoliates in patches to reveal creamy, pink, or reddish inner bark. It produces white or cream flowers in fall and maintains an attractive open canopy year-round.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Candlebark Tree grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Eucalyptus rubida offers reliable ornamental appeal through exfoliating bark and consistent flowering, with a smaller mature size (typically 30-50 feet) than many eucalypts, making it more manageable in moderate-sized landscapes. Compared to other smooth-barked species like E. dalrympleana, it tends to produce more vibrant color contrasts in the exposed inner bark. Its open canopy structure allows dappled light penetration useful in permaculture systems with understory plantings.
Watch out for
Seedlings and young trees can be brittle and require staking or windbreak protection until established, particularly in exposed sites. The prolific self-seeding and fast growth rate means regular monitoring may be needed to prevent volunteer seedlings from dominating planting areas, especially in favorable microclimates. Soil moisture needs are moderate but consistent, and the tree can struggle in poorly draining soils or sustained drought conditions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Myrtaceae
Native Range
southeastern Australia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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