Rainbow Eucalyptus Colouring

Rainbow eucalyptus, Eucalyptus deglupta, is native to tropical forests in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Unlike most eucalypts, it naturally grows in warm rainforest conditions. In the wild it can reach about 40 to 60 metres, and exceptional trees may grow taller. Its lifespan varies with conditions but can extend for many decades. The tree has a straight trunk, long narrow leaves, small pale flowers, and woody capsule fruits. Its most famous feature is bark that peels away in strips. Fresh bark begins green, then gradually changes through blue, purple, orange, red, and brown as it ages. Different strips peel at different times, creating the rainbow effect. A tropical rainy season keeps the tree growing and encourages new bark, leaves, and flowers. Nectar-feeding birds such as honeyeaters can visit blossoms, while butterflies rest on the trunk or use nearby plants. Rain runs down the smooth surface and collects at the roots. The tree is planted in suitable tropical parks for its beauty, but it becomes extremely large and is not appropriate for every garden. Adults must check climate, space, roots, and local ecological advice before planting. Bark should be allowed to shed naturally; pulling it can damage living tissue. Children can enjoy fallen pieces with their eyes but should leave them in the habitat where insects and fungi can use them. This page focuses closely on the tall peeling trunk so there is room to invent a spectacular pattern. Colour separate bark strips mint green, turquoise, blue, violet, coral, orange, rust, and chestnut. Let neighbouring strips overlap in colour, but keep their outlines visible. Leaves can be several natural greens, and the round capsule fruits can be tan or grey-brown. A honeyeater may combine olive, yellow, grey, white, or black depending on the species; choose a simple harmonious set. Give the butterfly two or three bright repeating colours. Use pale blue-grey raindrops and puddles, then deeper greens on the tropical leaves around the base. Long vertical strokes will strengthen the height of the trunk. Colour each peeling flap from top to bottom and leave small white highlights where it curls. Keep clouds pale so the bark remains the star. The completed rainy-season page should show that the rainbow is made by renewing bark, not painted stripes.

◫ A4 size✎ Bold outlines♡ Ages 3–8

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Make it an activity

Choose a favourite colour palette
Add a simple background
Display the finished artwork

Grown-up note: Please supervise printing and choose age-appropriate art materials.