The Rainbow Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta) is an evergreen tree known for its unique and vibrant bark. Its common name comes from the striking coloration that emerges as its outer bark peels away. This natural exfoliation reveals an inner bark that transitions through various hues, including bright green, blue, purple, orange, and maroon.
Its Natural Habitat
The Rainbow Eucalyptus is native to tropical rainforests, primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere. Its indigenous range spans across Southeast Asian and Pacific Island regions, including the Philippines (Mindanao), Indonesia (New Guinea, Sulawesi, Seram), and Papua New Guinea. It is unique among Eucalyptus species for thriving in rainforest environments. This tree can grow from sea level up to 1,800 meters (5,900 feet).
Environmental Needs for Growth
For the Rainbow Eucalyptus to flourish and develop its characteristic multicolored bark, specific environmental conditions are necessary. It requires a consistently warm, humid climate, ideally with mean annual temperatures ranging from 23 to 31 degrees Celsius (73-88 degrees Fahrenheit). The tree needs high annual rainfall, generally between 2,000 to 5,000 millimeters (78-197 inches), with monthly rainfall usually exceeding 150 millimeters (6 inches), as it does not tolerate a pronounced dry season. Full sun exposure is crucial for promoting vibrant bark coloration; less light results in less intense colors. The tree thrives in fertile, consistently moist, well-draining soil, preferring slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, and grows successfully in loamy, sandy, or volcanic-ash soils.
Global Cultivation
Due to its striking appearance, the Rainbow Eucalyptus is cultivated in regions outside its native range that offer suitable environmental conditions. These areas typically mimic the warm, humid, and frost-free climates of its natural habitat. In the United States, it is grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11, including parts of Hawaii, Southern California, Texas, and Florida. Brazil and parts of Africa also host these trees.
It is often planted as an ornamental tree in botanical gardens, parks, and along roadsides, valued for its aesthetic appeal and rapid growth. While it can reach 60-75 meters (197-246 feet) in its native environment, cultivated trees typically grow to about 30-38 meters (100-125 feet). However, bark coloration may not be as intense in non-native areas. The tree is also utilized in plantations for pulpwood in some regions.