Grey Gum

Eucalyptus punctata

Distribution and Availability

The Grey Gum, named for the colour of its bark, is a large tree of the myrtle family and is native to South East Queensland and eastern New South Wales. It thrives particularly in Sydney sandstone.

General Description

The sapwood of this species is paler than the heartwood, which is a red to reddish-brown colour. The grain features a coarse, even texture with interlocking, and whilst similar to ironbark, often includes grub holes.

Physical & Mechanical Properties

The timber is exceptionally hard and durable Australian hardwood timber. The timber adapts well to steam bending and tolerates stress well.

Working Properties

Grey Gum is difficult to work when dry due to its density and grain. It machines well, although care is required in working the timber’s interlocked grain. Grey Gum readily accepts paint, stain and polish, and accepts standard fastenings and fittings. As with most high-density species, machining and surface preparation should be done immediately prior to the application of bonding agents.

Durability

Grey Gum is exceptionally durable, and suitable for a range of  uses including construction, railway sleepers and boatbuilding. It is termite resistant.

Main Uses

Thanks to its hardness and durability, Grey Gum is favoured for engineering projects (railway sleepers, poles and piles), housing construction (framing, structural etc) and boatbuilding. It is ideal for decking, flooring and landscaping, and is a popular choice for butchers blocks.

Other Information

Like all timber products, the character of the wood is defined by inclusions. When working with Grey Gum, some care is needed with interlocked grain.