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Desert Malee

Eucalyptus Macrocarpa

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Overview

The Desert Mallee, or Eucalyptus macrocarpa, is a striking Australian native shrub reaching up to 10 feet tall and wide. Renowned for its large, vibrant red flowers spanning up to 4 inches across and contrasting powdery blue-gray foliage, it thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. Low maintenance and drought-tolerant, it's a show-stopping choice for water-wise gardens and arid landscapes, attracting pollinators and providing year-round visual interest.

Sun FullWater Low, Very LowZones 8–8Type ShrubClimate Arid
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — pink and red flowers in the garden

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Low, Very Low
USDA zones
8–8

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Shrub
Family
Myrtaceae
Climate
Arid

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Photos (39)

Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — commonly referred to by its botanical name Eucalyptus macrocarpa
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — vibrant red flowers spanning up to 4 inches across and contrasting powdery blue-gray foliage; its standout feature is
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — making it fairly compact and suitable for smaller spaces or as an understorey plant in larger garden plans
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — it thrives in well-drained soils and full sun
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — it requires minimal maintenance once established
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — Adapted to xeric environments
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — Low maintenance and drought-tolerant
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — Occasional pruning will help maintain its desired shape and promote healthy growth
Desert Malee (Eucalyptus Macrocarpa) — It prefers well-drained soils and a position in full sun to part shade
Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Photographs by 5 contributors

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