Silverdrop

Class

Dicotyledons

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Myrtaceae

Order

Myrtales

Genus

Eucalyptus

Species

gunnii

Description

Evergreen perennial plant suitable for gardens or for cultivation in pots if pruned regularly. Its ornamental value is conferred by its elegant plant architecture accentuated by its silvery-grey foliage, characterised by heterophylly and also appreciated cut for flower arrangements. Of medium hardiness, it prefers warm temperate climates although there are varieties resistant to winter cold.

Variety description

A very elegant plant due to its bearing and decorative silver-coloured foliage. It is ideal for warm temperate climates. Lately it also adapts to cold climates on well-drained soil. Can also be used as a cut foliage.

Curiosities and special features

Eucalyptus gunnii, as well as being valued in landscaping and outdoor ornamentals, is widely used as a cut foliage crop for elegant and unique flower arrangements.

Origin and distribution

Species native to Australia, particularly Tasmania.

Flower size

The flower individually is small.

Leaf

In general, the leaves have an oval lamina.

Flowering period

It flowers from mid- to late summer for a duration of 50 to 70 days.

Inflorescence

Inflorescence flower head.

Leaf colour

Solid-coloured silver, with a remarkable ornamental effect.

Plant height

The height of the plant varies from 3 to 10 m, depending on the growing conditions.

Lifespan

Perennial evergreen plant.

Where to plant

Variety suitable for cultivation in beds, flowerbeds or outdoor borders in temperate zones., open field.

Stem

Plant with a woody, semi-woody stem with grey or light brown bark that tends to flake off, giving it additional ornamental value; the variety has no thorns.

Flower

The flower is pom-pom-shaped, small, with single-coloured petals. It is arranged in small head-like inflorescences. It flowers from mid- to late summer, with a flowering period of 50 to 70 days. It has hints of honey and is lightly scented, with a delicate aroma. It is attractive to bees and bumblebees.

Growth

Vigorous growing variety.

Plant habit

The developed habitus is erect.

Branching

Abundant branching gives high foliage density.

PH

It requires a slightly acidic soil or substrate pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

Soil preparation

Before transplanting into a flower bed or border, carry out light digging to remove any weeds and bulky stones, then continue by burying organic or chemical granular fertiliser and breaking up the coarser clods to obtain softer soil and improve fertiliser distribution. It is advisable to bury sand if the soil is too heavy and poorly draining.

Sun exposure

Requires full sun exposure. Do not plant in northern areas where in winter the sun does not reach and the soil always remains wet or with poor drainage.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 18 and 35 °C. The vital temperature is between -2 and 35 °C.

Use

Due to the elegance conferred by its foliage, it acquires a primary role in

Outdoor ornamental

Hardiness

Variety of medium hardiness, fears waterlogging.

Soil

It offers the best growth results in well-drained soil; for use in planters, a peat-based substrate for green plants is recommended.

Difficulty

Cultivation is fairly easy, adding further value to the variety.

Growing tips

Some useful and specific cultivation tips:

Expose the plant to maximum light Prefers slightly calcareous water Prefers warm, dry climate

Planting

For transplanting adopt an average density of 2 plants/sq.m. choosing healthy specimens, free from abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Always identify the planting site in advance in relation to the growth conditions required by the species according to the principle 'The right plant in the right place'. Transplant by completely burying the root ball and water after planting. It is also advisable to distribute a layer of mulch to keep the soil cooler during the hottest season as well as to protect the roots from the intense winter cold.

Pruning

It must be topped several times depending on the size desired.
Over-aggressive topping in hot weather can cause the plant to die.

Propagation

Propagation is mainly by seed.

Watering

Use low-lime water. Keep the soil or substrate slightly moist by preventing both water stagnation and dryness throughout the year.

Fertilising

When preparing the soil for transplanting, carry out a background fertilisation with a specific slow-release fertiliser for ornamental plants. After proper establishment in the new planting site, during the spring-summer period, fertilise regularly with specific liquid fertiliser, to be diluted in the irrigation water according to the quantities and frequencies proportionate to the plant's needs and the presence of nutrients in the soil or substrate.

Edibility for humans

Non-edible

Tip

Decorative plant in the garden that can also be pruned to shape, avoid soils that are too loamy. It can also be used as a cut foliage plant. Does not like cold climates and high humidity.