PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN VUInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Vulnerable — at high risk of extinction if the current adverse conditions continue.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Eucalyptus deglupta
Rainbow Eucalyptus
Blume
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A massive, fast-growing evergreen tropical tree that can reach staggering heights. It is world-renowned for its smooth, multi-colored bark that exfoliates in patches at different times of the year, revealing a living canvas of bright green, blue, purple, orange, and maroon streaks. It features lanceolate leaves and clusters of delicate, brush-like white to cream flowers.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Myrtales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Myrtaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Eucalyptus
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Blume
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Introduced
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Decreasing
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
The only Eucalyptus species native strictly to the northern hemisphere tropical rainforests, originally spanning New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It thrives in humid, lowland riverine settings, alluvial valleys, and disturbed areas with rich, moist volcanic soils, demanding high sunlight.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
An ultra-dominant canopy pioneer tree that shapes the architecture of young riverine tropical forests. Due to its rapid metabolism, it transpires vast amounts of water and locks up carbon at an exceptional rate, producing dense, high leaf canopies that filter light for shade-tolerant understory species.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
3000.0 - 7500.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
The unique continuous shedding of thin outer bark layers acts as a natural mechanism to shed epiphytes, mosses, and parasitic fungi, keeping the trunk exceptionally clean and optimizing photosynthetic bark functions.
Possesses a highly aggressive, rapid growth strategy and powerful root systems designed to colonize open, freshly deposited alluvial river silt ahead of other slower climax species.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Severe habitat fragmentation in its natural native range caused by clearing for extensive logging, commercial pulp plantations, and conversion of fertile river flats into mechanized agriculture.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The spectacular rainbow color shifts occur because underneath the peeling old bark, the inner bark layer is bright neon green. As it is exposed to air and solar radiation, it progressively oxidizes into deep blues, purples, oranges, and reds.