Red box - Eucalyptus polyanthemos (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Red box

Also known as: Redbox gum

Red box (Eucalyptus polyanthemos) is a tree that can grow to 20 m tall. It has round to oval, grayish green leaves and a box-shaped trunk. Foliage is fragrant and evergreen. Blooms in early spring with small, white flowers. Thrives in full sun with medium, well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought tolerant.

Scientific classification

Species

Red box (Eucalyptus polyanthemos)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Red box

Distribution of Red box

Distribution Map

Red box, native to southeastern regions of Australia, now finds itself both naturalized and cultivated beyond its original habitat. Its presence has spread to other temperate regions, often favoured in landscaping and forestry. Although not as widespread as some of its eucalypt relatives, red box has been introduced to parts of East Africa and East Asia, where it has adapted to local environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

The leaves of the red box are food for the larvae of the moth species Trichiocercus sparshalli and the eucalyptus leaf mining sawfly. Older specimens of Eucalyptus polyanthemos form hollows which are nesting sites for the barking owl (Ninox connive).

Name Story

Red box: The species epithet “polyanthemos” of Eucalyptus polyanthemos is derived from Ancient Greek and means “many-flowered.”

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Toxicity

Red box has mild toxicity to humans, cats, and dogs. Ingesting its essential oil can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and confusion in humans. Cats and dogs may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness if they accidentally consume the plant. Immediate veterinary care is essential upon poisoning symptoms.

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Quickly Identify Red box

Imposing size: 40-60 feet (12-18 meters) tall and 30-45 feet (9-14 meters) wide.

Grayish-green, oval-shaped leaves hanging from white branches on elongated petioles.

Clusters of inconspicuous cream flowers during spring and summer.

Resilient to cold, surviving down to 14°F (-10°C).

Slender form with a crown of oval leaves, adding vertical interest to landscapes.

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Care Guide for Red box

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red box thrives in arid environments, tolerating drought with minimized transpiration and enhanced water absorption. It requires watering every 2-3 weeks for optimal growth. As an evergreen, red box retains leaves year-round, efficiently managing water usage during dry periods.

Fertilize: For red box, use balanced fertilizers and high-nitrogen formulations during active growth. Fertilize every 2-3 months, decreasing in winter, and apply cautiously to prevent harm. Evenly distribute around the drip line and water well to enhance growth and vitality.

Pruning: Red box thrives with winter pruning, focusing on dead or diseased branches and thinning for airflow. This dormancy period reduces stress, promoting regrowth. Benefits include better structure, reduced disease risk, and increased aesthetic appeal, crucial for maintaining overall vitality and ornamental value.

Propagation: Red box is valued for its hardiness and ornamental foliage. Propagate using fresh seeds, ideally treated through stratification to enhance germination. Sow in a well-draining mix, keep consistently moist, and gradually acclimatize seedlings to outdoor conditions before transplanting.

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Images of Red box

Distribution of Red box

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Red box

Care Guide for Red box

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