nature
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Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree in Balboa Park, San Diego
You might've already known about eucalyptus but have you heard of rainbow eucalyptus? The colorful eucalyptus deglupta species grows in places such as its native Papua New Guinea or Hawaii. The colors of the rainbow eucalyptus are striking, more colorful than a regular eucalyptus. These deglupta trees may be hard to locate.
I answer important questions like: Can I grow a rainbow eucalyptus? Can it grow in California? Where are they native to? What causes rainbow eucalyptus trees? Keep reading!
As a local, I've been to Balboa Park dozens of times over the past 20+ years. It's a place I thought I knew pretty well but life always surprises you. Something about this visit was a bit different. I noticed a colorful tree. You don't find trees with rainbow bark very often. I looked at it & all of a sudden I recalled news video I've seen earlier in the week.
I watched a two-minute news clip about the rainbow eucalyptus tree, which stated that you can see it in various spots throughout San Diego County, including Balboa Park & the San Diego Zoo. There are tons of eucalyptus trees in San Diego but this was unique.
Related reading: Your Guide to Hanging Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves in the Shower
Just like most social media users, I absorb & consume a lot of content, so I thought it was cool but I never thought much of it. Fast forward to this one magical time I'm in the park. I saw the colorful rainbow eucalyptus tree & the video clip went through my mind. I took a couple pictures & moved on with my day exploring San Diego. That said, I cannot recall the exact geolocation but it was somewhere near the museum & building areas.
Related reading: Coffee Shops in Carlsbad, California
What Causes Rainbow Eucalyptus?
The little rainbow tree grows up to be a big rainbow gum tree. No no, just kidding. The rainbow tree effect comes from the various layers of bark as they begin to oxidize & peel off. Rainbow eucalyptus trees lose their bark & thus, shades of their color, which causes the stunning rainbow look.
It may take years for a tree to acquire enough layering. You'll often see shades of orange & bright green. The trunk of this magnificent eucalyptus rainbow tree is a rare, seasonal sight. The best time to witness it might be in the springtime, that's when I viewed it!
Can Rainbow Eucalyptus Grow in California?
These beautiful rainbow trees, called Eucalyptus deglupta, are native to tropical rainforest environments such as the Philippines, Indonesia, & Papua New Guinea with some rain. If you type in the phrase rainbow eucalyptus tree into Google, the image shown depicts the tree in some pretty wild colors. That is not at all the type of wild, natural version I saw in Balboa Park, San Diego area. I have to guess that many images online are heavily edited to include a range of colors.
In Maui, Hawaii you'll find the Eucalyptus deglupta, also known as the Mindanao Gum or the Rainbow Gum tree. You'll find these remarkable painted eucalyptus trees on Hana Highway as well as Ke’anae Arboretum. Rainbow eucalyptus trees with rainbow bark aren't easy to search for. The Eucalyptus deglupta is quite a sight with shades bright green & orange! Hawaii is the perfect place for these trees since they thrive in a frost-free, tropical environment.
Can rainbow eucalyptus grow in California? Technically yes because they are growing in places like Balboa Park & the San Diego Zoo. However, it'll be harder to find rainbow eucalyptus seeds, bonsai, or seedling. One thing to remember: it's definitely not a house plant as eucalyptus can grow over 100 feet tall. You might be able to find the seeds online like on Amazon.
If you're in the San Diego area, here's a list of things to do in Oceanside, California: restaurants, coffee shops, what to see, & here's a list of things to do in Encinitas, California.
Where Can You See Rainbow Eucalyptus?
You'll spot it on Maui, Hawaii, some places in Southern California & San Diego like the Zoo or Balboa Park. It can be found in the Philippines, Indonesia, & Papua New Guinea. It can take years for the colorful rainbow effect to develop. These are your best best for finding the trees!
Can I Grow a Rainbow Eucalyptus?
The bark is one of its most notable features & that's what makes it so popular. However, these aren't easy plants. If you can potentially find the seeds or a seedling, you can certainly try. It is possible to be planted.
The trees don't grow everywhere so it might be easier said than done. It will be hard to grow the tree in a place where it is not naturally native. Conditions such as the soil & humidity may make a huge difference. They tend to thrive in a frost-free environment. You might be able to find the seeds online someplace like Amazon.
These are some pretty cool trees that can be found in various places in the world. They aren't new but they are somewhat rare. It's one of those things you have to see in real life order to appreciate & know its beauty. The way the bark peels is nature at its finest. Enjoy the sight if you see one in person! I can't believe I walked by one right when they were in season with its bark chipping off to slowly reveal the layers of colors underneath. As a gardening enthusiast, it was a joy to see one up close.
Have you seen trees with rainbow bark before? Let me know in the comments if you know where to view these in your city? Maybe we can compile a list! :]
Anacapa Island Day Trip: Channel Islands National Park
Magic exists in the natural marvels of Channel Islands National Park. Off the coast of Southern California, you'll find five islands: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, & the smallest island of them all, Anacapa Island. Available by boat only, these other islands are secluded from the buzzing freeways & cell phone chatter of everyday life. You won't find a Wi-Fi signal out here, but you might find yourself. Anacapa Island is 12 miles out to sea. As your boat comes in you might see the sea caves, kelp beds, and arch rock. Seriously the best views for wildlife watching.
Scroll down to learn the answers to: Where is Anacapa Island? How do you get there? Is it part of Channel Islands National Park? What are some things to do on Anacapa Island? Is there camping? Are there hotels in Downtown Oxnard? How can you do an Anacapa Island day trip?
About Carmen
Hello, welcome to my blog! I'm Carmen. I'm a travel writer (also known as a travel blogger or travel influencer). Some of my most popular travel posts are Things to Do at Playas de Tijuana, Mexico, How You Can Visit Central Perk Cafe from Friends, & Your Guide to Oslo, Norway. I prefer black tea over coffee. I've worked with brands & companies such as The French Ministry of Agriculture, KAABOO Del Mar, Queen of the South TV show on USA, OLLY, & more. You can learn more About Me here. |
| A pod of dolphins followed our Island Packers boat on the return trip from Anacapa Island - near Anacapa Arch. |
Where is Anacapa Island?
Part of the Channel Islands National Park, you can find Anacapa Islands off the coast of Oxnard, California. Oxnard is 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles; 38 miles south of Santa Barbara. Anacapa Island has three islets named East, Middle, & West Anacapa Islands. However, you aren't permitted to explore all three of them.
How do I get to Anacapa Island?
It's not like visitors can walk from one island to the next anyway, that's why you need a boat for transportation. You have to take a boat trip out there. The boat ride over takes about an hour. Visitors can explore the entire island in just half a day. You can't just leave the island when you want, you have to stay there until the boat takes you back later in the afternoon. Perfect excuse to go on an adventure!
Other things to do in California: Go skydiving & wine tasting in Lompoc, California
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| Travel to Anacapa Island on the Island Packers boat. |
Transportation Around the Islands
I took a majestic boat ride with Island Packers. Arrive at the Oxnard Harbor. Travel time takes about an hour each way. Fred & I downloaded a few episodes of the Dr. Death podcast so we could listen with headphones from our phone. A layer of clouds protected us from the sun & the waves of the ocean. Apparently, the clearer the skies, the choppier the water. The more you know, right?
As we ventured past the Anacapa arch our way back to Oxnard, we saw a pod of dolphins. They swam right next to us. It was a top life experience. Island Packers offers trips to Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa Island, Santa Barbara Island, whale watching, & other exciting options for visitors.
Once the Island Packers boat docks, adventurers step onto a ladder at Landing Cove then they corral everyone to cover the essential rules of Anacapa Island. After that, get ready for your quads to burn because you have 157 steps to climb.
I felt a bit winded but the view from the top was spectacular, the first time you can see what it looks like from the island. You're really stuck out there on a small blip of land in the middle of the ocean, okay well it's about 10 miles off the coast of Oxnard, California.
Other things to do in California: Beach hopping & meditation in Encinitas, California
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| Western Gull mama (probably) & cute little spotted chick. |
Marine Life and Animals on Anacapa Island: Western Gulls, California Brown Pelicans, Island Fox, Oh My!
Visit Anacapa Island from April through mid-August & you'll run into some seabirds, particularly the Western gull. An annoyed gull pooped on Fred's backpack as we walked by its nest. If you're not a fan of birds, guano (bird poop), possible bird carcasses, loud squawking (literally anytime you walk by a nest or chicks), questionable smells, then avoid voyaging to the island during this time frame. However, if you want to experience an absolutely remarkable natural phenomenon, then mark your calendar & book a ticket. You might spot California Brown Pelicans, cormorants, pigeon guillemots, western gulls, California sea lions, harbor seals. I saw California Brown Pelicans, Western gulls, sea lions, & dolphins! Just stay on the hiking trails! There is even summer whale watching so you might catch a whale too. |
| Sea lions relaxing & making a bunch of noise in a private cove. |
Anacapa Island Camping
We only did a day trip on the island, but there are Anacapa Island camping options. We saw several campers already setup from the day before. There were a couple campers who left on the evening boat out for the day. The campsites are "primitive." That's the wording from the National Park Service website, but I'd called them minimal or bare. Anacapa Island provides picnic tables, food storage boxes, & pit toilets for use. But ultimately, you need to take all trash with you as there are no rubbish bins. The island has 7 campsites that fit 4-6 people per site. Reservations are required, so you can't just decide you're having a great time staring at the baby Western Gulls & have a sleepover. Check campsite availability on Recreation.com, the official website to make your Anacapa Island camping reservations.
Is There Food, Drink, & Water on Anacapa Island?
No, make sure to bring everything you need with you. There's no food, drink, or water on the island for visitors to purchase. We brought a couple liters of water, sandwich or pita pockets, chips, fruit, granola bar, & some chocolate in a backpack for our Anacapa Island day trip. You must take all garbage with you; we simply put it in our backpack to throw away once we got back to Oxnard.
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| Things to Do on Anacapa Island: Hiking, Bird-Watching, Camping. |
Things to Do on Anacapa Island
On our day trip to Anacapa Island, we walked the entire trail around the island, saw the Anacapa Island lighthouse, marveled at the views from Inspiration Point, got pooped on by a Western Gull (well, Fred did at least), picnicked with a panoramic ocean view. Despite the boat full of people we arrived on the island with, we were able to have many private, secluded moments. You can't get super close to the Historic Light house on Anacapa Island but you can definitely get a good photo of it.Activities for Visitors to Do on Anacapa Island
Water Sports
Picnicking
Hiking
Camping
Bird-Watching
Historic & Cultural Site Information Site
Photography
Ranger Station
Snorkeling
Swimming
Small Visitor Center
Wildlife Viewing
Water Access
Scuba Diving
Whale-Watching
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| Our ocean view room from Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort in Oxnard, California. |
Where to Stay (Besides Camping on Anacapa Island): Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort
I stayed at the Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort with a remarkable ocean view. Our spacious two-room suite Mandalay Beach Hotel is a good option for kids, families, & couples. They have a spa, fitness center, huge pool. I took advantage of Happy Hour by the pool. Just show your wristbands & order your drink. I grabbed the house wine while Fred opted for their beer on tap. We sipped our beverages along with the dozens of other people doing the same thing on a Friday evening. Make sure to eat the made-to-order brekkie at the Coastal Grill in the morning.Hotels in Oxnard
✓ Best Western Oxnard Inn
✓ Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach - Hotel & Resort
✓ Residence Inn by Marriott Oxnard River Ridge
✓ Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach - Hotel & Resort
✓ Residence Inn by Marriott Oxnard River Ridge
✓ Courtyard by Marriott Oxnard/Ventura
Take a look at some of the hotels in Downtown Oxnard. You can customize what day you'll arrive/leave & how many people in your group. You can even expand your hotel search to include Oxnard & surrounding areas:
Booking.com
Things to Do in Oxnard, CA
You can spend the entire day or weekend admiring nature in Oxnard. There are endless things to do in Oxnard, California as far as strolls by the beach, kayaking, exploring the Channel Islands National Park, & thriving outside. Visit Oxnard has some fabulous suggestions if you need more inspiration for places to stay, where to dine, things to do, & local events in Oxnard. There are other other California National Parks as well.Other Fun Stuff
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| Pin this image on Pinterest - Day Trip to Anacapa Island. |
Have a question? Comment below & I will answer the best I can. Let me know if you've visited Anacapa Island. Would the birds scare you off? :]
Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves: How Long Does Eucalyptus Last in the Shower? Where to Buy?
This fragrant green plant is the perfect addition to your next shower, as a DIY aromatherapy. What is eucalyptus in the shower good for? Any healing or health properties or is that hoo-ah? What are the benefits or therapeutic properties of eucalyptus? What does eucalyptus smell like? How to keep eucalyptus fresh? It can be used in a number of ways. Get ready to learn more about eucalyptus oil, leaves, & more.
Eucalyptus in Shower
You may have read some information about the addition of eucalyptus in shower online and now you're in search of tips. The trees are native to Australia, but did you know there are actually many species of eucalyptus plants? You might see the large tree in a public garden or park. If you head to your local farmers market & ask for some, the leaves might look different. The long leaves are classified as eucalyptus globulus but you might often see the short stubbier leaved version. You can get a lot of use out of one bunch of leaves. Whether you're super crafty or just want to have a refreshing shower, this post will cover everything. Breathe easy. Grab a cuppa tea & start scrolling!
Hang Eucalyptus in Your Shower
Using eucalyptus branches can become a part of your daily routine. Hang one bunch of fresh eucalyptus leaves in your shower to freshen up your bathroom. Get one hair tie, rubber band, twine. Simply tie it with a string or rubber band near your showerhead. The eucalyptus leaf has such a strong, cleansing smell. The hot water hits the leaves to create a eucalyptus steam, kind of like an all-natural shower diffuser based from eucalyptus plant oil. Eucalyptus in the shower can be useful for some anti-stress, energizing, decongesting properties. If you have nasal congestion, this might be a good plant to try.
When hanging eucalyptus in your shower up, the oils from the leaves give off an incredible scent that may potentially last for weeks & up to two months - so you can get a lot of use out of one branch. Wondering how long does fresh eucalyptus plan last in the shower? Scroll down for the answer.
Where to Buy Eucalyptus Plant
What to have a spa like experience of your own? Try to find it at your local farmers' market; that's where the scent is the best! If you can't find it there, you can also buy eucalyptus leaves on Amazon or find an oil. Get the leaves from a range of online shops. The price may vary.
You can get Dried Real Eucalyptus Branches 12 Stems, Natural Eucalyptus Plant Leaves for Arrangement Wedding Home Decor on Amazon.
There's also: Freshly Handpicked & 100% Natural leaves that you can buy on Amazon. | Relieves Stress & Anxiety - Perfect for Self Care.
It's not the same as fresh eucalyptus leaf but using it could be worth a try! Can't find leaves - try an oil instead. Hanging eucalyptus in your shower feels like a stress-free spa like experience with a sense of style and calm. If you can't find eucalyptus plants near you, you can always opt for eucalyptus-based products in the meantime. The price may vary depending on where you buy it.
You could get eucalyptus scented candles instead. There are a lot of eucalyptus scented candles available online on Amazon.
Where Can I Buy Eucalyptus Leaves?
Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, but you can find the leaves online or maybe in your local store. I'm based in Southern California, so I find my favorite eucalyptus bouquet at my local farmers market, flower shop, or grocery store. I've seen eucalyptus fresh leaves at Trader Joe's, Vons, & some grocery stores by the flower section. Get some at the grocery store or you might be able to find it at craft stores too! Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.
How to keep eucalyptus fresh?
Care Tip: Shake off the leaves after every shower to avoid gnats or rotting. Preserve eucalyptus stems with this tip. The green fresh eucalyptus bunch leaves can be flat & hold a lot of water. Get the most from your leaves. Shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture! Hey yaaa! After you turn off the water, shake as much water from the hanging leaves as you can. Get as much off as possible. Then you're ready to go. The eucalyptus leaf keeps the water if you don't shake it off & it takes hours to dry (if it dries at all).How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower?
How long does fresh eucalyptus last in the shower? Well, how frequently do you use it? Is your family of 6 using one shower 8 times per day? If that's the case, it's better to count the number of uses the leaves got, rather than the days. It ultimately depends how frequently you shower & how you care for the bundle of leaves. If the eucalyptus shower gets used multiple times a day, it may last two to three weeks or so. We had our hanging eucalyptus branches for two to three weeks, went on a 3-week trip, & came back to the most fragrant, fantastic scent of eucalyptus wafting through the bathroom. We used it for one more week before heading to the farmers market for a new bundle. If you use your shower a lot, the leaves won't last as long in terms of days. Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.
Can I Use Eucalyptus Oil Instead?
Of course! You may use whatever you have on hand. I dabbled with oil eucalyptus for several years. It all started in 2014 with my very first bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. I prefer the fresh leaves because the scent is much more potent than the essential oils. But the eucalyptus essential oil is convenient & travel-friendly since you may take a small bottle with you wherever you go. Click here for my favorite eucalyptus essential oil (*affiliate link). Eucalyptus oil still has benefits too! You can also buy real eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. The oil of eucalyptus is a good alternative if you can't find the fresh version. It's important to be careful when applying eucalyptus oil to your skin.What Does Eucalyptus Leaves Smell Like?
What does eucalyptus smell like? Hmm good question. The eucalyptus smell is potent. has a potent, in-your-face smell kind of like spearmint or pine. The oil itself might smell different than the leaf but overall it's natural, earthy, & menthol-y. It might be considered similar to camphor or cedar. Think something along those lines as far as the smell. However, the fresh version will be milder than the oil version.
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
What Can You Do With Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves?
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
It's Pretty
Last but certainly not least, hanging eucalyptus bundles to your shower head is aesthetically pleasing. It looks beautiful hanging in the shower. The green leaves ad a touch of natural ambiance and aromatherapy to your bathroom. If you want to add a touch of freshness into your bathroom, this is a relatively simple way to do so. You could opt for preserved eucalyptus instead. If you want the leaves to last even longer, get creative. Add eucalyptus stems to a jar or vase in your bathroom rather than hanging it up in the shower. It won't really have I scent but it's worth a shot for the vibes. If you're crafty, you can make projects with the leftover dried leaves. What would you make? If you found this post, it's a sign.
How have you seen people use eucalyptus leaves in the shower or to your shower head? Is it something you'd be willing to try out or are you just dabbling for now? I love the way it looks hanging in my bathroom & the way it smells & the way it makes me feel rejuvenated. It feels like this topic is so popular right now. Every influencer has some leaves in their shower or somebody talked about it in a magazine. This is something I've been doing for years now & it's part of my daily routine. My friends know I do it. I've converted friends into it trying out. So finally I decided to write about it! I hope this brought you value.
Do you use eucalyptus leaves or oils eucalyptus in the shower? If you prefer the oil, how do you like to use it? Leave a comment! Tell me about your experience. Feel free to ask a question! What are some of the eucalyptus benefits you've found? Any other ways it can be used? Add a luxurious touch of natural aromatherapy to your next shower.
About Me
Hi, thanks for making it all the way down here. I'm Carmen, a writer & social media manager based in San Diego, California. I like to travel, eat tostadas, & drink hot Earl Grey tea whenever possible. Learn more about my Press + Media page to see the brands & companies I've worked with in the past. I've created content for a range of travel, lifestyle, & food brands.
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
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| Pin this image on Pinterest. Your guide to hanging eucalyptus stems in the shower. |
The best things in life
Some of the best things in life are free. Some of the best things in life are not things. Some of the best things in life are right in front of you. Life is all about the simple pleasures. You can't go around judging the value of your life by the money you make or the things you can buy. Take a step back from the every day greed and do nothing. Forget your daily hassles, problems and woes for a second. Do something that gets you back into nature. Do something that gets you out of the house. Do something that makes you more knowledgeable. Do something fun, worthwhile, silly, outrageous, rewarding. Do something different. Do something.
Life's Little Lessons: Part IV
* Life's Little Lessons is a series about the moral of each day. I am a strong believer in positive thinking and seeing the good in the bad. After all, when a horrible thing happens, you can either wallow in your sorrows or find the deeper meaning in the experience. Even on the darkest of days, there is a raison d'être or reason for existence.
Life's Little Lessons: Part I
Life's Little Lessons: Part II
Life's Little Lessons: Part III
15. Be complaint free - Stuff happens. There's nothing you can do about it. Live with it and learn from it.
16. Just do it - If there's something you've been putting off, right now is the time to do it. Seriously, there's no time to waste. If your credit bills are piling up, do something about it. If you've been madly in love with your best friend for the last year, just tell her. If you feel like you've put on a few pounds, go to the gym.
17. Things take time - You can't rush life. Some things require much time and effort. But don't give up simply because it seems arduous or unpleasant. Take it one step at a time. A day may seem long, but it'll seem short in a week.
18. Get out of the house - Seriously. Get out of the house. If you find yourself feeling cooped up and anxious, get out of there as fast as you can.
18. Get out of the house - Seriously. Get out of the house. If you find yourself feeling cooped up and anxious, get out of there as fast as you can.
19. Dine with friends - Got nothing better to do? Buy some groceries and cook dinner with a buddy at your place. Or you two could go to a cafe for a cappuccino and scone. Regardless of where or what you eat, nothing bonds friends more than food. Take the time out of your busy schedule to retain the friendships that you presently have.
20. Productive days are the best - Remember that feeling of accomplishment that rolls over you when you did everything you needed? You did the laundry, the dishes, washed the car, took the dog for a walk, cleaned your entire bedroom and finished all your school work. When you use your time wisely, the day flies by, memories are made, things get done.
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