Eucalyptus gunnii: The Silver Giant of the Garden

Some trees in the garden you don't just need to see, you need to smell. Eucalyptus is exactly that. If there's that sharp, clean, almost menthol-like scent in the air as you walk by, Eucalyptus gunnii is nearby.

Our Eucalyptus gunnii has grown tall as a column over the years. Looking up, those silvery blue leaves gain an almost metallic shimmer in the sunlight. It adds depth to the garden, like a backdrop but much more aesthetic.

Scientific Identity

Full name: Eucalyptus gunnii. Family: Myrtaceae. Origin: Tasmania and southern Australia. Common names: Cider Gum. Type: Fast-growing evergreen tree. Height: Can reach 35 meters in natural habitat, usually 10-20 meters in gardens.

Those Round Leaves and Color

The most distinctive feature of Eucalyptus gunnii is the young branch leaves. Round, almost circular, silvery blue-green. These young leaves are the favorite of florists and flower arrangers. Frequently used in flower bouquets, bridal bouquets and decorations.

As the tree matures the leaf shape elongates into a blade form. But by pruning to encourage young shoots, you can keep obtaining those charming round leaves.

From Vicks to Perfume: Eucalyptus Oil

You are right, the characteristic scent of Vicks VapoRub comes from eucalyptus oil. However commercial eucalyptus oil production generally uses Eucalyptus globulus. Eucalyptus gunnii also contains 1,8-cineole but at lower concentrations.

That said, you can use Eucalyptus gunnii leaves at home. Fresh leaves provide decongestant effects with hot steam during a shower. Dried and brewed as tea for respiratory complaints. The essential oil can be used in aromatherapy.

Fast Growth and Garden Contribution

One of the biggest advantages of Eucalyptus gunnii is its fast growth. It can gain 1-2 meters in height per year. This is both advantage and disadvantage. Advantage: Creates a tall screen, shade or windbreak in a short time. Disadvantage: Regular pruning needed to keep it under control.

In our garden it adds depth and scale in the background. Small plants in front, shrubs in the middle tier, this giant eucalyptus behind. Classic permaculture layering.

Permaculture Value

Eucalyptus is a controversial permaculture plant. Criticisms include: draws a lot of water from the soil, can be allelopathic inhibiting growth of some surrounding plants, leaf fall creates acidic soil.

But managed correctly there are values too. Rapidly growing it sequesters carbon. Very effective as a windbreak. Leaves can be used medicinally. Bark and leaves provide habitat for some insects. In our garden we've positioned it away from other plants in border areas.

The Florist's Favorite

Those silvery blue branches of Eucalyptus gunnii are very valuable in floristry. Used everywhere from bridal bouquets to table decorations to dried flower arrangements. Its natural color works as filler alongside many different flowers.

Cut a branch from your garden and bring it inside. It can be dried without water, its color and shape preserved. Its scent continues for a long time too.

Care

Loves sun, full sun ideal. Drought tolerant, minimal watering once established. For cold hardiness Eucalyptus gunnii is one of the most resistant varieties, can withstand down to -15 degrees. Not soil selective, just needs to not be waterlogged. Pruning: Edges trimmed once a year for controlled height. Cutting basal shoots achieves single-trunk tree form.

If you have a Eucalyptus gunnii in your garden, cut one of those silvery branches and bring it to your kitchen. Visual, scent and a natural health touch all in one. If not, get a sapling — it will grow fast and change the character of your garden in a short time.