Spotted Gum

By Geoff Holloway

Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) is an attractive tree growing to 35-45 metres with some reaching 70 metres in higher rainfall areas.

The Spotted Gum is found in Coastal NSW and Southern Queensland and identified by the straight trunk and the smooth, mottled, light to dark grey bark, seasonal shedding of bark exposes light pink new bark with dimples. The heartwood is light to dark brown, sometimes with a curly grain pattern, dense at 970kg/m3 and very durable.

The wood is used for framing, flooring, railway sleepers, tool handles, decking, outdoor furniture and some craft use. Large plantations have been established in many overseas countries, which is a testimony to the quality of the timber produced.