Ghost Gum

Plant Type: Evergreen Shade Tree
Plant Height: 30-60 feet
Spread: 20-40 feet
Flower Color: Clusters of creamy white flowers
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Ghost Gum: Sculptural Beauty with Striking White Bark

The Ghost Gum (Eucalyptus papuana) is a dramatic evergreen tree admired for its smooth, powdery white trunk and branches that glow in sunlight or moonlight. Native to arid regions of Australia, it thrives in hot, dry climates, making it well-suited for Arizona landscapes. With its upright habit, airy foliage, and clusters of creamy white flowers, the Ghost Gum adds sculptural interest and year-round appeal to large yards or desert-themed designs.

Key Features of Ghost Gum

• Iconic White Bark: Smooth, luminous bark creates a dramatic contrast against desert backdrops.
• Evergreen Foliage: Narrow, gray-green leaves provide soft, filtered shade.
• Low Maintenance: Adapted to drought and poor soils once established.
• Wildlife Value: Flowers attract pollinators, and the canopy offers bird habitat.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Tolerates sandy, rocky, or poor soils as long as they are well-drained.
• Water: Moderate water during establishment; very low water needs once mature.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove lower branches to showcase white bark.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 25°F; may show frost damage in colder winters but recovers in spring.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Tree: A bold statement piece with sculptural white bark.
• Shade Tree: Provides dappled shade for large yards and open spaces.
• Xeriscape Gardens: Pairs beautifully with desert natives like palo verde, mesquite, and agaves.
• Large Landscapes: Best used where its size and dramatic form can be fully appreciated.

Summary

The Ghost Gum is a striking ornamental tree that brings sculptural drama, drought tolerance, and year-round elegance to Arizona landscapes. Its white trunk and airy canopy make it a standout feature in both residential and commercial designs.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Ghost Gum Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for strongest growth and best bark coloration.
Soil: Well-drained soil; thrives even in poor or rocky soils.
Spacing: Plant 25-40 feet apart for mature canopy development.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm gently.
Support: Stake young trees for the first 1-2 years until established.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3-4 days for the first 2 weeks, then once weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 10-15 gallons per watering for young trees.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: 9-12 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 3-4 weeks; increase to every 2-3 weeks in extreme heat.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is lacking.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 18-24 inches from trunk, expanding outward as tree grows.
• Flow Rate: 2-4 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 3-5 per tree, adjusted as canopy expands.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering during peak summer; reduce in cool/rainy seasons.

General Watering Tips for Ghost Gum

• Soil Check: Water when soil is dry 4-6 inches deep.
• Encourage Strong Growth: Deep, infrequent watering builds a strong root system.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can weaken structure and increase disease risk.
• Mulch: Use decomposed granite or gravel mulch around the base to conserve moisture and highlight the white trunk.