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Plant Profiles / Dwarf flowering gum 'Summer Red'
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Dwarf flowering gum 'Summer Red'
Corymbia ficifolia 'Summer Red' · Grafted red flowering gum
A compact grafted gum smothered in vivid scarlet flowers in summer. A native showstopper for small gardens.
Full sunLight
Weekly in summerWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Needs full sun.
Water
Weekly in summer
DryWet
Drought tolerant once established.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-2–40°C (28–104°F)
CoolWarm
Light frost.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
Grows 4–5 m.
Soil
Free-draining soil
LeanRich
Sandy loam.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Native fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Eucalyptus oils toxic to pets.
About this plant
Summer Red is a grafted dwarf form of the WA red flowering gum. It grows 4–5 m and attracts honeyeaters and bees.
Best spots
Small gardens, front yards, courtyards and large pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Corymbia ficifolia 'Summer Red' |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Origin | Western Australia (cultivar) |
| Plant type | Evergreen tree |
| Mature size | 4–5 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Scarlet |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Prune
Fertilise
PlantFloweringPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Shoots below graft | Remove promptly. |
| Few flowers | More sun. |
| Yellow leaves | Wet roots. |
| Leaf spot | Improve airflow. |
Common questions
How big does it get?
4–5 m.
Is it native?
Yes.
Can it grow in a pot?
Yes, a large one.
Is it pet safe?
No.
