The Manna Gum
Also known as the Manna Gum, Eucalyptus viminalis is classified into three different sub species with the main differences being in final height and size as well as soil tolerance.
Found from New South Wales through Victoria to south Australia, as well as in Tasmania the tree also carries common names of ‘Ribbon Gum and ‘White Gum’. Growth habit will vary from a tall upright tree to shorter spreading tree depending on sub species, soil and climate.
Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. viminalis is one of the tallest of all of the Eucalypts and its main commercial use is in timber production with the timber being valued for general construction work with some use as flooring and in furniture.
All species are very attractive to birds and bees, this is a tree that is valued for honey production. It is also a source of food for the Koala.
All species find uses as a large shade tree and are also suited create shelter belts on rural properties.
Eucalyptus viminalis ssp cygnetensis and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. pryoriana have seen increasing use in coastal areas where they cope well with the sandy soils and general coastal conditions.
Eucalyptus viminalis – Species and sub species.
- E. viminalis ssp. viminalis – This is the most widely found species and also the largest, van reach 50 in height.
- E. viminalis ssp cygnetensis – Smaller growing to around 10m, grows well in sandy soils.
- E. viminalis ssp. pryoriana – Generally smaller growing to around 15m.
This is a Manna Gum from the Gippsland area Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana is both drought and frost tolerant.
Previously known as Eucalyptus pryoriana it has now been classified as Eucalyptus pryoriana.
Found only along the coastline from Port Phillip and Westernport Bays to Gippsland this is a favoured tree for Koalas. Also known as the rough barked gum.
Eucalyptus viminalis Landscaping Uses
Uses depend on the sub species with different heights determining suitability.
E. viminalis pryoriana for example is useful as a shade tree in some situations, it also attracts a range of native animals and birds to the garden.
Attractive smooth pale bark that falls away in ribbons, and a slight weeping habit make this an attractive tree for parks, gardens as well as for shelter belts.
Summary
- Botanical Name – Eucalyptus viminalis
- Common Name – Manna Gum
- Height – 10 – 50 metres plus depending on species
- Spread – Eventual crown spread of 10m
- Position – Full sun.
- Soil – Humus rich moist for good growth, will cope with poor soil, however growth will be slower and smaller.
- Growth rate – Medium to fast depending on soil and climate.
- Foliage – Deep green glossy.
- Flowers – Creamy white
- Flowering period – Summer to Autumn.
Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana is available for sale from the following wholesale nurseries.
1750 Westernport Rd Heath Hill VIC 3981
Australias largest grower of semi advanced native and deciduous trees. .9 - 2.6mts high. Supplying councils, developers and landscapers. Includes Acacia implexa, acacia melanoxlylon.
www.dream-time.com.au
111 Stanhope Road Theresa Park NSW 2570
Offering a variety of sun hardy Australian natives and exotic trees, shrubs, groundcover's and perennials from semi advanced through to super advanced and semi-mature stock.
www.downesnursery.com.au