Hardwood Timber Species Data: Sydney Blue Gum (Eucalyptus saligna)
Description of Sydney Blue Gum
Sydney Blue Gum is a large flowering hardwood that stretches from Queensland to the New South Wales seaboard. An Aussie hardwood that can grow as tall as 65 meters high with a trunk diameter between 2 and 2.5 meters.
Sydney Blue Gum is straight-trunked with white or smooth grey bark above a brownish, rougher-barked base. These trees bloom from December through February in bunches of seven to eleven distinctive white flowers.
In addition to its use as a building and construction timber, it fills an important ecological role. Koalas enjoy the taste of its leaves, while the Grey-headed Flying Fox can be seen eating the flowers during blooming seasons.
Its seeds are a delicacy to birds such as the Crimson Rosella. Unfortunately, an aggressive Australian bird known as the Bell Miner also enjoys the blue gum.
Ecologists are currently investigating the impetus behind what they’ve termed Bell Miner Associated Dieback (BMAD).
Its rich dark honey-coloured wood and straight, interlocked grain makes it perfect for solid timber flooring, engineered wood, and parquetry, but less suited for outdoor decking.
A red-hued beauty that features variations of soft, dark pinks and reddish browns.
A favourite of furniture and boat builders alike. Sydney Blue Gum features heavily in paneling and general building construction thanks to its versatility and appearance.
Physical Properties of Sydney Blue Gum
Dry Density: range 850 kg/m³
Janka Hardness: 9.0 kN
As a timber, Sydney Blue Gum is relatively hard and dense without being difficult to work with thanks to its Janka rating of 9 and its dry density of 850 kg/m³.
These properties are only a guide, as timber is a natural product there will be variations within any species. The Janka Dry Hardness rating measures the hardness of the wood. The higher the number the harder the wood
Use Sydney Blue Gum in your next project
If you would like to use Sydney Blue Gum in your next project and need assistance with either choosing the correct flooring panels or the installation of your next flooring project then please get in touch with one of our flooring specialists using the form below.
We also offer a more personalised service for those looking for renovation advisory where our team come to your location and help you choose the best species and style to fit the room.
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