Eucalyptus (Cider Gum)
Eucalyptus gunnii
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.
- Light
- Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day).
- Water
- Moderate watering; allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Highly drought-tolerant once established.
- Growth
- True perennial evergreen tree. Can reach 40-70 feet in height but often kept as a shrub or houseplant via pruning. Fast growth rate.
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.
Growing details
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.
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.