A magnificent tree with flaking bark in shades of grey, cream, green and brown. It has silvery-blue, rounded young leaves which give way to long, glaucous, sickle-shaped adult foliage. It is probably the most well-known gum in this country as it is often seen in milder gardens, where it is completely hardy except in abnormally cold winters.
How to care for Eucalyptus gunnii:
Requires minimal pruning if grown as a tree, removing any broken, diseased or crossing branches in late autumn or winter. For the best juvenile foliage, prune in early spring cutting back the stems to two or three buds above the base. When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
25m
Eventual spread:
10m
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)