Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
Eucalyptus macrocarpa
Eucalyptus macrocarpa, known as Mottlecah or the Rose of the West, is one of the most spectacular flowering plants in the eucalyptus family. Endemic to south-western Western Australia, it produces the largest flowers of any eucalyptus species, reaching up to 10 cm across, set against stunning silvery-grey foliage. It symbolizes bold magnificence, extraordinary beauty, and the dramatic power of the Australian landscape.
Myrtaceae (Myrtle family)
Late winter to early summer (August to January); may flower sporadically at other times
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: melaleuca citrinas and kunzea baxteris also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Eucalyptus macrocarpa was first formally described by the botanist William Jackson Hooker in 1842 from specimens collected by James Drummond in Western Australia. When Hooker observed the flowers he noted that the bright red blooms were "nestled among the leaves" and formed a striking object. The species name macrocarpa derives from the Greek makros meaning "large" and karpos meaning "fruit," referring to the notably large woody capsules that follow flowering. Indigenous Australians called it "morral." Today, Mottlecah is celebrated internationally as one of the most remarkable ornamental plants in the Myrtaceae family. Its extraordinary flowers, which are by far the largest produced by any eucalyptus species, have attracted botanical artists, horticulturalists, and native plant enthusiasts worldwide. The common name "Rose of the West" reflects its status as the floral jewel of Western Australia's sandplain heathlands.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun in an open position; best flowering and form in maximum sun exposure; avoid shade and morning or overhead shadow
Water
Water regularly during establishment through the first summer. Once established, highly drought tolerant and waterwise; supplementary watering is rarely needed. Never allow water to sit around the roots.
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Sandy Loam, Slightly acidic to neutral; absolutely intolerant of waterlogging or heavy clay
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in an open, full-sun position with excellent drainage; raised beds or mounded planting positions are ideal in heavier soils
Avoid all phosphorus-based fertilisers; use a low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser if feeding is necessary
Prune sprawling stems back to maintain a more compact form, or cut to near ground level to regenerate from the lignotuber if rejuvenation is required
Best suited to Mediterranean climates with dry summers; avoid humid, subtropical, or frost-prone areas
In cooler climates, grow as a container specimen and bring indoors or into a frost-free glasshouse in winter
Do not overwater; more plants are lost to waterlogging and root rot than to drought
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spectacular feature specimen in native, Mediterranean, and waterwise gardens
- Cut flower arrangements; flowers, buds, and large decorative gumnuts are all used
- Wildlife garden attracting honeyeaters, hummingbirds (in cultivation overseas), bees, and pollinators
- Container growing indoors in cool or frost-prone climates
- Erosion control and pollution-tolerant plantings in appropriate climates
- Semi-arid and drought-tolerant landscape designs
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Eucalyptus Macrocarpa
What is Eucalyptus macrocarpa commonly known as?
Eucalyptus macrocarpa is most commonly known as Mottlecah, a name derived from the Noongar Aboriginal language. It is also called the Rose of the West and Blue Bush. The species name macrocarpa means "large fruit" in Greek, referring to its notably large woody seed capsules.
Does Eucalyptus macrocarpa have the largest flowers of any eucalyptus?
Yes, Eucalyptus macrocarpa produces the largest flowers of any species in the eucalyptus genus. The blooms can reach up to 10 cm (100 mm) in diameter and consist of dense masses of brilliant red stamens with yellow anthers, set dramatically against large, silvery-grey sessile leaves.
What does Eucalyptus macrocarpa symbolize?
Eucalyptus macrocarpa symbolizes extraordinary beauty, bold magnificence, and audacious splendour. Its spectacular, oversized flowers emerging from against silvery-grey foliage make it a powerful symbol of nature's capacity for dramatic, unapologetic display.
Is Eucalyptus macrocarpa hard to grow?
Eucalyptus macrocarpa can be challenging outside its natural Mediterranean climate. It requires full sun, perfect drainage, and dry summers. It is intolerant of waterlogging, heavy soil, humidity, and frost. In appropriate conditions with good drainage and a dry summer climate, it is long-lived and low-maintenance once established.
How do I prune Eucalyptus macrocarpa?
Eucalyptus macrocarpa can be pruned back to manage its naturally sprawling growth habit. Light pruning of overlong stems can be done at any time. For rejuvenation, the plant can be cut back hard near ground level; it will resprout vigorously from its lignotuber, the woody swelling at the stem base that stores nutrients and energy.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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