Rainbow Gum Tree Seeds - Eucalyptus Deglupta

Eucalyptus deglupta Seeds – Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree

Buy Eucalyptus deglupta seeds online and grow your very own Rainbow Eucalyptus – nature’s most colourful tree! Native to the tropical forests of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, this fast-growing tree is famous for its spectacular, multicoloured bark and striking ornamental value.

Perfect for collectors, tropical garden enthusiasts, and lovers of rare trees, Eucalyptus deglupta is a living masterpiece – and yes, it can be grown in the UK with the right care.

Why Choose Rainbow Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta)?

• Unparalleled visual appeal: As the outer bark peels away throughout the year, it reveals vibrant streaks of green, orange, blue, maroon, and purple – creating a unique rainbow effect.

• Fast-growing tree: In ideal conditions, this tropical beauty can grow several feet per year.

• Air purification & shade: Like all eucalyptus trees, E. deglupta releases oxygen and absorbs airborne pollutants.

• Conversation piece: A stunning feature tree for greenhouses, large pots, conservatories, or sheltered gardens.

History & Traditional Uses

Eucalyptus deglupta, also known as the Mindanao gum, has a long-standing history in its native habitat. It is the only eucalyptus species that naturally grows in the Northern Hemisphere. Traditionally, its timber has been used for pulpwood in paper production due to its fast growth and straight trunk. In landscaping, it’s prized for its exotic rainbow bark and dense canopy.

In modern horticulture, it’s an increasingly popular ornamental tree for collectors and arboretums worldwide – especially among those seeking rare and exotic plants.

Germination Guide for Eucalyptus deglupta Seeds (UK Specific)

Growing Rainbow Eucalyptus from seed in the UK requires care, patience, and attention to temperature and humidity. Here’s how to maximise your success:

What You’ll Need:

• Eucalyptus deglupta seeds

• Seed trays or small pots with drainage

• Sterile seed-starting compost or coco coir

• Heat mat or heated propagator

• Clear plastic cover or humidity dome

• Spray bottle for misting

• Bright location (south-facing windowsill or grow light)

Step-by-Step Germination Instructions:

• Seed Preparation (Optional but helpful):

  • Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours to improve germination speed.

  • This helps soften the seed coat and mimics tropical conditions.

• Sowing the Seeds:

  • Fill your tray or pots with fine, free-draining seed compost.

  • Scatter seeds on the surface — do not bury them. E. deglupta seeds require light to germinate.

  • Gently press them down to ensure contact with moist soil.

• Moisture & Humidity:

  • Mist the surface lightly with water using a spray bottle.

  • Cover with a humidity dome or clingfilm to retain moisture.

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

• Temperature:

  • Maintain a temperature between 22–28°C using a heated propagator or heat mat.

  • Lower temperatures will dramatically reduce germination rates or cause dormancy.

• Light:

  • Place the tray in a bright, warm location – ideally a south-facing window or under a full-spectrum grow light.

  • Seeds need light to germinate.

• Germination Time:

  • Seeds typically germinate within 14 to 28 days, though some may take up to 6 weeks.

  • Once seedlings appear, remove the cover and maintain high light and humidity.

• Transplanting:

  • When seedlings develop 2–3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots with free-draining soil.

  • Use a mix of loam, sand, and compost for ideal growth.

Growing Eucalyptus deglupta in the UK

Rainbow Eucalyptus is a tropical to subtropical species, so growing it in the UK presents some unique challenges – but it is absolutely possible.

Sunlight:

• Requires full sun. Place outdoors in summer or in a greenhouse/conservatory.

Frost Protection:

• E. deglupta cannot tolerate frost.

• In the UK, this tree must be kept in a heated greenhouse or moved indoors during colder months.

• Ideal for container growing, allowing you to move the tree as needed.

Watering:

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season.

• Avoid waterlogging – always ensure good drainage.

Shelter:

• Provide protection from cold winds and sudden temperature drops.

Pruning:

• Light pruning can encourage branching and maintain a more compact form.

Ideal For:

• Exotic plant collectors

• Indoor and conservatory gardens

• Heated greenhouses

• Urban jungles and tropical-themed gardens

• Botanical gardens or arboretums