Eucalyptus (Cider Gum)

Scientific Name: Eucalyptus gunnii

Plant Family: Myrtaceae

Native Region: Tasmania, Australia; widely naturalized in temperate regions worldwide.

Eucalyptus (Cider Gum)

Brief Description

A fast-growing evergreen tree known for its silvery-blue juvenile foliage that is widely used in floral arrangements. Adult leaves are more elongated and sage-green.

Care Instructions

Requires full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant once established but needs regular water during the first year. Prune regularly to maintain juvenile foliage and manageable size.

Medicinal Value

We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.

Sunlight

Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day).

Watering

Moderate watering; allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Highly drought-tolerant once established.

Soil

Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5 to 7.0). Tolerates poor soils but dislikes waterlogged conditions.

Hardiness Zone

USDA zones 8 through 11; can tolerate temperatures down to 10°F (-12°C) once mature.

Growth Habit

True perennial evergreen tree. Can reach 40-70 feet in height but often kept as a shrub or houseplant via pruning. Fast growth rate.

Bloom Season

Summer; produces small, creamy-white flowers with many protruding stamens, typical of the myrtle family.

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested (due to essential oils causing gastrointestinal upset and neurological issues). Irritating to humans if large quantities are eaten.

Propagation

Primarily through seeds sown in spring. Cuttings are possible but can be difficult to root without high humidity and bottom heat.

Common Pests & Issues

Aphids and eucalyptus psyllid. Susceptible to root rot if soil is too wet, and powdery mildew if air circulation is poor.

Similar Species

Eucalyptus pulverulenta (Silver Mountain Gum) - stays smaller and keeps round leaves longer; Eucalyptus globulus - much larger with bigger seed pods.

Interesting Facts

The 'Cider Gum' gets its name because the sap can be fermented into a drink similar to cider in its native Tasmania.

Created At: 2026-04-17T18:44:14.496081