# Information on Ghost Gum Trees
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Location
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Ghost gum occurs naturally in southern Papua New Guinea, southern West Papau, Darus Island in Torres Strait and Queensland Australia, where it grows in savannah woodlands, according to the Australian National Botanic Gardens. The tree is hardy to 22 degrees Fahrenheit and may be grown in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 to 11. Like other eucalyptus trees, members of the bloodwood genus are quite heat tolerant and require full sunlight to thrive.
Culture
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Ghost gum is a low-maintenance tree that is tolerant of a wide range of cultural conditions so long as soil is well draining. Arizona State University recommends that all significant shaping be done when the tree is young to avoid making any large scars on the trunk when the tree is older. Lower branches may need to be trimmed to elevate the canopy base and increase clearance underneath. The tree is moderately drought tolerant, though it can benefit from supplemental watering during extended periods of drought.
Uses
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Ghost gum may grow up to 60 feet tall, producing a broad, densely leafed crown that makes for a romantic shade tree. Its eery white bark can be quite spectacular in the evening. Mountain States Wholesale Nursery notes that the Arizona Department of Transportation consistently recommends the tree for new freeway projects because of its tolerance of windy weather and its light litter production. Arizona State University describes ghost gum as a "magnificent" alternative to the more brittle red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis).
Problems
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Eucalyptus trees may fall prey to foliage attacking insects such as eucalyptus tortoise beetle and eucalyptus snout beetle. The University of California Integrated Pest Management Program (UCIPMP) recommends following prevention strategies such as protecting the tree from injury and providing good cultural care by irrigating deeply once a month during dry weather. Irrigation should be deep, penetrating into the soil to a depth of about a foot. The UCIPMP cautions, however, against prolonged water logging, as eucalyptus trees are susceptible to Armillaria and Phytophthora root rot.
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