Care of the tree Eucalyptus globulus or Blue gum |
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The genus Eucalyptus, family Myrtaceae, includes some 700 species of trees and shrubs native to Australia and New Guinea. Some species are: Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus kruseana, Eucalyptus oleosa, Eucalyptus diversifolia, Eucalyptus caesia, Eucalyptus torelliana, Eucalyptus socialis, Eucalyptus torquata, Eucalyptus gracilis, Eucalyptus leucoxylon, Eucalyptus erythrocorys. Common names: Blue gum, Southern blue gum. This species is native to southeastern Australia and Tasmania. They are large, fast-growing evergreen trees that reach 40 meters (131.23 feet) in height. The bark peels off in long strips from the silvery trunk. The aromatic lanceolate leaves are bluish-grey. The white flowers measure 3 cm (1.18") in diameter. They bloom from late summer to mid-autumn. The aromatic fruits are capsules in the shape of a flared cone. Blue gum is used as isolated specimens in large gardens and in public parks. It is not convenient to plant it near buildings due to the strength of its superficial roots. Eucalyptus globulus needs full sun exposure and a warm climate. It resists light and occasional frosts. The soil should be well drained and contain some organic matter; it prefers siliceous soils. Water moderately waiting for the substrate to dry. It resists a few days of drought when they are established. Fertilize with compost or manure in the fall. Southern blue gum does not need pruning but the dead branches can be removed at the end of winter. Eucalyptus globulus is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases. Blue gum is propagated from seeds sown in the fall or spring. These seeds can be kept for 10 years maintaining their germinative power. |
Images of the tree Eucalyptus globulus or Blue gum |
 Eucalyptus globulus  Eucalyptus globulus |