Eucalyptus, often called gum trees, are distinctive plants known for their rapid growth, aromatic foliage, and unique, sometimes peeling, bark. The leaves release a recognizable scent when crushed, making them popular for ornamental value and essential oil production. Purchasing a suitable tree requires matching the species’ needs with your environment. This guide walks you through the process of locating and purchasing a eucalyptus tree.
Sources for Purchasing Eucalyptus Trees
The most traditional and reliable place to find a eucalyptus tree is a local nursery or garden center. Buying locally allows you to physically inspect the plant before purchase and provides access to expert advice from staff familiar with your specific climate and soil conditions. Nurseries often stock varieties known to perform well in the immediate geographic region, which simplifies the selection process.
Specialty online growers offer a broader selection of species, including rare or cold-hardy cultivars that local shops may not carry. Dedicated growers ensure the plant material is accurately identified, often providing detailed information about the seeds’ provenance. However, the inability to inspect the tree beforehand and shipping stress can lead to damage or slower initial establishment.
Some non-traditional sources, such as Arbor Day foundations or conservation programs, sell bare-root seedlings or smaller saplings. These options are typically the most economical, especially for purchasing in bulk, but the young plants require more diligent care during the establishment phase. When buying online, choose vendors who specialize in trees and use secure, protective packaging to minimize transit shock.
Selecting a Species Based on Climate and Purpose
Choosing the correct eucalyptus species is crucial, given the vast differences in cold tolerance across the genus. Many species are only suited for USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11. Certain varieties, notably the Cider Gum (Eucalyptus gunnii) and some Snow Gums (Eucalyptus pauciflora), are known for enhanced cold hardiness, sometimes surviving temperatures down to 0°F in established specimens. You must match the species’ lowest temperature tolerance with the coldest average temperature in your area.
The intended purpose of the tree should also guide your selection, as mature size and growth habit vary. Some species are fast-growing trees that can reach heights of 100 feet or more, requiring significant planning and distance from structures. Other cultivated varieties, such as Eucalyptus leucoxylon ‘Euky Dwarf’ or Eucalyptus citriodora ‘Scentuous’, are compact or dwarf forms that only reach 15 to 30 feet, making them ideal for containers or smaller yards.
Beyond size, consider the characteristics you desire, such as foliage color or bark texture. Varieties like Eucalyptus cinerea (Silver Dollar Gum) are prized for their juvenile, rounded, silvery-blue leaves, which are popular for floral arrangements. Other species may be selected for their striking, peeling bark or for their high yield of aromatic oils.
Evaluating the Health and Quality of the Tree Before Purchase
Begin by examining the foliage for signs of pests, such as tiny holes or sticky residue. Look for any unusual color or premature dieback, which indicates stress or disease. The leaves should appear dense and uniformly colored, without excessive yellowing or spotting.
Assess the trunk and stem for physical damage, checking for cracks, splits, or weak branch attachments. A healthy tree should have a single, dominant central leader. The transition where the trunk meets the soil line, known as the root flare, should be visible and tapered; if the tree goes straight into the soil without this flare, it may have been planted too deeply, leading to decay issues.
The root system is important to check, especially since eucalyptus are fast growers often kept too long in their containers. Gently slide the tree out of its pot to inspect for root binding, indicated by thick, circling roots visible around the root ball. A healthy root system will have firm soil and fine, white root tips, but excessive circling roots require pruning before planting to prevent girdling.
Ensure the container size is proportional to the tree’s height, as a very large tree in a small pot is likely to be severely root-stressed. Once purchased, protect the tree during transport by shielding it from high winds, which can rapidly desiccate the leaves. Upon arriving home, place the tree in a sheltered area and water it well to mitigate shock before planting.