The word eucalyptus is derived from the Greek meaning “well covered” referring to the flower buds, which are covered with a lidded, cup-like, tough outer membrane.
This membrane is flung off as the flower blooms, revealing the woody fruit containing many eucalyptus tree seeds.
Climate: HotLocation: CourtyardClassification: Novel PlantFunction: BeautifyingModel Number: Great EucalyptusStyle: PerennialSize: LargeCultivating Difficulty Degree: EasyFeatures: Ornamental ValueCultivation style: Open land, garden, courtyardHousehold products: Goods for a summer residenceSeason and ZoneExposure: Full sun
Zone: Hardy to Zone 8
Timing
Sow indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost date. That’s mid-winter for most gardeners. Germination should occur in 14-21 days.
Starting
Lightly cover the seeds and keep moist and warm until germination. Once the seeds sprout, remove from the bottom heat and remove any humidity dome. It seems that Eucalyptus seedlings are prone to damping off, so provide bright light and air circulation around the plants. At 10-13cm (4-5″), transplant onto a container if kept indoors. Or transplant outdoors once nighttime temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
Growing
Plant in full sun in well-drained, moderately rich soil. This Eucalypt can be grown in a container as an indoor houseplant and pruned to a compact size. Outdoors, take branches as needed for floral displays. They can also be dried or preserved with glycerin.
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