Very few people are fortunate enough to see one of these beauties up close and personal...in fact, unless you've ventured to the right tropical location, chances are you've only seen them in books...or in blog posts like this one!
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These magnificent beasts are called Eucalyptus deglupta! They are more commonly referred to as "Rainbow Eucalyptus." These are the only species of eucalyptus that grow north of the equator. You can find them roaming through the forests and jungles of Indonesia, New Guinea, the Philippine Islands, the Hawaiian Islands, south Florida, south Texas, and southern California.
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In their native environment, these trees can grow almost as tall as Sequoia and Redwoods, topping out at around 250 feet. The Rainbow Eucalyptus found growing on the U.S. mainland top out at half that, in the neighborhood of 125 feet.
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Probably the most mesmerizing feature of the Rainbow Eucalyptus is the tree bark itself...the bark of the tree splits, cracks, and peels off in large strips to reveal new bark below, which is brightly hued with various colors that start out a vibrant, eye-popping green...then, as the new bark ages, it begins to turn blue and purple...and eventually ends up turning red, orange, and yellow...unlike other tree species that shed their bark once annually...the Rainbow Eucalyptus sheds its bark continuously, which is why you can see all the different colors competing for space on the trunk and limbs!
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I didn't know the existence of that species of eucalyptus and I have seen a lot of David Attenborough documentaries. Thanx!
I actually saw them for the first time when I lived in Hawaii back in the early '80's...very cool species of tree...glad you enjoyed the post! :)
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The opalescence of these extraordinary trees is positively luminous, these pictures are so stunning, thanks for sharing them @ justusagenstum
Did you know that the colours are only on the surface of the bark and not, as one might think, throughout the wood on the inside of the trunk?
I have been searching for seeds so I can grow one of these beauties for a long time...fruitlessly so far. They really do cast their colours to make even a rainbow weep!
I did know about the colors...as far as seeds, you need to live in the right climate zone to even consider being successful at growing one of these...but good luck nonetheless...glad you enjoyed the post :)
Yes, you're right about these lovely trees needing the correct environment. Sadly I am unable to offer them the conditions they require...but my friends who live off grid in a permaculture setting in the rainforest region of Australia would be able to nurture them beautifully and such magnificent beauties would enhance their space and hopefully thrive there. 🌳❤️⭐️
Now you're talking...that's where they need to be :)