Material Spotlight: Spotted Red Gum
Durable, Distinctive, and Built for the Australian Outdoors
If you’re considering a hardwood for your outdoor deck, screen, or feature cladding, it’s hard to go past Spotted Red Gum. Native to Australia and known for its strength and rich character, this timber is as tough as it is timeless — making it an ideal material choice for Melbourne homes exposed to the full spectrum of weather.
Here’s why Spotted Red Gum continues to be one of our top recommendations for outdoor applications.
What Is Spotted Red Gum?
Spotted Red Gum is a native Australian hardwood known for its deep reddish-brown tones, tight interlocking grain, and impressive density. It’s part of the eucalyptus family (Eucalyptus camaldulensis and related species), and grows widely across southeastern Australia — making it both durable and environmentally responsible when sourced from well-managed forests.
Its natural strength and visual richness make it ideal for:
Decking and outdoor platforms
Timber screens and privacy features
External cladding and battens
Feature posts and pergolas
Why It Works So Well Outdoors
Extreme durability: Rated Class 1 above ground, Spotted Red Gum performs well in tough outdoor conditions.
High density: It resists wear, denting and damage - great for high-traffic areas.
Stability when seasoned: Once properly dried, it offers excellent resistance to movement, warping or cupping.
Distinct appearance: Character gum veins and colour variations give every board a unique, timeless feel.
Whether you’re after a bold architectural look or something more traditional, Spotted Red Gum can adapt to the style of the home, especially heritage homes where natural materials make all the difference.
Finish & Maintenance
Like all hardwoods, Spotted Red Gum will gradually silver off with UV exposure. To maintain its rich tone, we recommend applying a quality oil or decking finish once or twice a year, depending on exposure.
Regular sweeping and occasional re-coating will keep it looking beautiful and help preserve its structure.
Where to Source It
We recommend sourcing Spotted Red Gum from Eco Timber Group in Richmond. They offer premium, sustainably sourced hardwoods for both homeowners and trade customers
Eco Timber Group shares our commitment to quality materials and environmentally conscious sourcing — a perfect match for projects that are built to last.
Thinking About Using Spotted Red Gum?
From custom decks to feature walls and pergolas, we’ve used Spotted Red Gum across a wide range of heritage and architectural builds. If you’re considering this beautiful hardwood in your next renovation or outdoor project, we’re happy to talk through the options.