Southwest Gardening: Surprising Fall Color from Red-Cap Gum

Eucalyptus erythrocorys: Winter Bloomer

Most fall color comes from leaves or berries, but the red-cap gum (Eucalyptus erythrocorys) offers a different spectacle. This evergreen lights up the shortest days with scarlet bud caps that drop to reveal vibrant yellow flowers from November through March. It has deep green leaves, white bark, reaches 30 feet, tolerates drought and heat, and is hardy to 23°F (Sunset zones 12 and 13). Stake young for a single trunk, or cut back the main stem for a multi-trunked shrub. Look for it at well-stocked nurseries.