Gum, Sydney Blue

Sydney blue gum is a large hardwood species growing to a height of 60 metres or more. It occurs natively in forests along the coast of New South Wales and southern Queensland. Sydney Blue Gum is also extensively grown as a plantation species in South Africa and South America, where rapid growth yields timber of much lower density than Australian material.

Sydney Blue Gum is an important general construction timber, particularly in New South Wales. It is widely used for flooring, cladding, fencing, paneling and boat building. Other common applications include landscaping (as garden sleepers), furniture and joinery.

The heartwood of the species ranges in colour from dark pink to a reddish brown. Sapwood is distinctly paler. The grain of Sydney blue gum timber is typically straight, with occasional interlocking of grain. Texture is moderately coarse and gum veins are common. Sydney blue gum is a moderately durable timber with a life expectancy for in-ground applications of between eight and 15 years. Untreated sapwood is susceptible to Lyctid borer attack.

Sydney blue gum timber is easy to dry relative to most other eucalypts. It is also easy to work, dress and fix. It responds well to most finishes and takes a good polish, making it popular for decorative applications where moderate durability is required.