River Red GumThe Easy-Going One
If Bloodwood is the intense bloke at the pub who tells you his life story, Red Gum is his mate who just nods along and shouts the next round. Smooth, reliable, doesn't need to prove anything.
The Tree: Eucalyptus Camaldulensis
You can spot where water runs in Alice Springs by following the Red Gums. They line the Todd and Charles Rivers, big old things that have been standing there for centuries. When the Todd actually flows (every few years, if we're lucky), these are the trees holding the banks together.
Unlike Bloodwood which needs rain to flower, Red Gums tap deeper groundwater. More reliable harvest, though "reliable" is a strong word for anything in the desert.
What It Tastes Like
Red Gum is the crowd-pleaser. It doesn't demand attention or challenge your palate. It just... works.
- Colour: Clear golden amber. Looks like what most people think honey should look like.
- Taste: Mild and smooth with a gentle eucalyptus finish. Sweetness without being cloying.
- Best For: Everything, really. Tea, toast, baking, cooking. It's the all-rounder.
When It Goes Solid
Red Gum crystallizes at its own pace - faster than some honeys, slower than Bloodwood. When it does set, you get this fudgy consistency that spreads on toast without dripping everywhere. Some people prefer it that way.
Want it runny again? Warm water bath, 40 degrees, 15 minutes. Done. More on that here.
Who Should Get Red Gum
- Families with kids - The mild flavour goes down easier than Bloodwood's intensity
- Bakers - Adds moisture and sweetness without overpowering other flavours
- Gift buyers - Nobody's going to complain. It's a safe bet
- Daily users - The one you keep on the bench and reach for without thinking
Red Gum vs Bloodwood
People ask us this all the time. Here's the honest answer:
- Red Gum: Mild, smooth, goes with everything. The reliable daily driver.
- Bloodwood: Bold, intense, savoury-sweet. The special occasion honey.
Neither is "better". They're different tools for different jobs. Get both if you can't decide.
Bottom Line
Red Gum is the honey you don't have to think about. It turns up, does its job, and never disappoints. Not as dramatic as Bloodwood, but that's not always what you want.
Sometimes you just want a cuppa with honey that tastes like honey. Red Gum's got you covered.
Ready for the easy-going option?
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