Bring stunning Antipodean colour into your garden with this evergreen shrub. Growing up to 10m tall over time, this plant is hardy throughout most of the UK down to -15°C.
The Eucalyptus tree, though native to only a small area in southeastern Australia, has been introduced to gardens spanning the other five continents. When you see the delicate silver-blue colouring of its foliage, and the distinctive silhouette of the pairs of round leaves, it's not hard to see why! This striking shrub brings interest to your garden with its shape, colour and texture. With grey-bronze bark, blue-green foliage and, potentially, cream-coloured fluffy flowers in summer, this striking plant brings character and understated colour to your garden.
|
Evergreen
|
Small tree or large shrub
|
Foliage year-round, summer flowers
|
Scientific Name
Eucalyptus globulus (well-covered [flowers], globular species)
Common Name
Eucalyptus pulverulenta (syn), Silver-Leaved Mountain Gum, Silver-Leaved Eucalyptus, Argyle Apple
Origin
Native to Tasmania and Victoria, in Southeastern Australia
Pruning Tips
To encourage large leaves in young plants, once they are established, prune hard in the dormant season - check out the RHS' pruning group 7 for more detail. When your Eucalyptus is established and at a size you're happy with, prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
Wildlife Value
Eucalyptus leaves support a variety of insects, and when it blooms, the flowers produce plenty of nectar. Despite being non-native, it does support a number of pollinators and insects here in the UK.
Positioning
Plant in full sun, in shelter from the wind.
Water
Your Eucalyptus will want its soil to be lightly moist and not totally dry out, so give it a bit of a water in spells of dry weather.
Soil
Use a fertile soil that's neutral or slightly acidic. Flexible with soil types but needs to be well-draining ad Eucalyptus won't do well stuck in a puddle.
Food
A light feed in spring, or an annual mulch around this time, will be enough nutrition to keep this plant happy.
Pet-safe
No, Eucalyptus are toxic to most animals, including humans and pets.
Sprouts Top Tips
For the best foliage colour, plant in a sunny, sheltered location. Regular pruning encourages fresh, juvenile leaves that are perfect for cutting and using in floral arrangements.
