The Australian Umbrella Tree is a native plant from the eucalyptus family that thrives in humid and hot environments. It’s also known as the Octopus or stringy bark tree, because of its peculiar appearance. If you’re interested in growing one of these intriguing plants at home, then keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Australian Umbrella Tree care and maintenance.

How to Grow an Australian Umbrella Tree

The Australian Umbrella Tree thrives in full sun areas with moderate to warm temperatures. It needs a moderate to decent water supply in the summer growing season. You can use potting soil, coco peat, or a mix of both as a growing medium.

The soil ought to be lightweight yet well-draining, complemented by ample drainage holes. Periodic fertilization of your Australian Umbrella Tree with a controlled-release fertilizer will help ensure that the plant receives all the necessary nutrients to flourish..

Water your Australian Umbrella Tree

The optimal method for watering an Australian Umbrella Tree is through a drip irrigation system. Alternatively, a "wicking" system can be employed, which allows the water to be absorbed upward by the plant's leaves.

Initially, for the first six to eight weeks, it's recommended to water the Australian Umbrella Tree once a week. Beyond this period, daily watering is advisable if the soil feels dry. It's crucial to water the soil directly and avoid the leaves, as wet foliage can lead to wilting, yellowing, and potential leaf drop, which is best avoided.

Feed your Australian Umbrella Tree

An Australian Umbrella Tree grown in a container does not need additional fertilizer. Fertilization should only occur if the tree is planted outdoors. The optimal approach is to use a granular soluble fertilizer combined with a water-soluble activator. Fertilize once a month, as over-fertilization can lead to abnormally rapid growth, resulting in a frail tree with weak development.

Protect from frost and drought

Australian Umbrella Trees are resilient when given proper care. Nevertheless, frost and drought can be fatal to even the sturdiest specimens. To safeguard your tree against frost, cover the pot with mulch or blankets. For protection from intense heat, consider using shade cloth, a tree tent, or awnings.

Pruning is crucial for the health of an Australian Umbrella Tree. Regular pruning enhances air circulation within the pot, shapes the plant, and encourages healthier branch growth.

Summary

The Australian Umbrella Tree is an attractive plant that flourishes in sunny locations. Its distinctive umbrella-shaped leaves form a canopy that shades from intense direct sunlight, giving the tree its notable name. This tree can be cultivated in nearly any sunny area, provided it gets a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily throughout the year.

As with any plant, periodic watering of your Australian Umbrella Tree is essential. Protection from frost and drought is also crucial, as these conditions can be fatal to the plant. Overall, the Australian Umbrella Tree requires relatively minimal care. Adhering to the guidelines in this article should help you maintain a healthy and thriving tree for many years.