Tips for Growing Eucalyptus Gunnii
By Susan Landis-Steward
, last updated September 7, 2011
Eucalyptus gunnii, also known as cider gum, is an excellent choice for a home garden and with a few tips can be easy to care for. It is frost tolerant, and can be pruned to keep it small and shrub-like. It makes a good border plant with its leathery frosty blue leaves that are also great in flower arrangements. They are also highly scented. Although it is more tolerant of frost than other eucalyptus species, it's a good idea to keep it in tub and bring it inside to overwinter if you live in a place with hard winters. It is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
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If allowed to grow to its full size, the eucalyptus gunnii's leaves will become green and less rounded so prune it to keep the leaves at their most attractive.
Don't allow your eucalyptus to sit in wet soil as it prefers to be kept on the dry side and wet soil can cause problems. Make sure the soil is well drained. Water well and allow to dry out before watering again. Restrict water in the winter.
Once established, it is tolerant of drought. Feed it monthly with balanced fertilizer. This is a rapid growing species so be prepared to prune it regularly. This plant prefers full sun or partial shade.
The eucalyptus blooms in late spring with small creamy white blossoms in clusters of two or three.
The eucalyptus gunnii has very few pests, and in fact, its scent is known to repel many insects. The leaves can be used in your home to repel moths, fleas, and other pests.
You can start this plant at home from seeds. Use equal parts peat and sand to plant them and keep the seeds at 70 degrees Fahrenheit for the 80 to 100 days it takes them to bloom.
