Eucalyptus - a versatile all-rounder
The eucalyptus, especially the Eucalyptus gunnii, belongs to the myrtle family and is a trendy evergreen plant that is ideal for gardens and balconies. With its silver-greyleaves and pleasant fragrance, it is very popular both indoors as a houseplant and outdoors in containers. The branches of the eucalyptus are ideal for decorative arrangements. Eucalyptus leaves are also considered beneficial and useful due to their essential oil content.
Autor: Peter Karper
Planting eucalyptus - how it works
Eucalyptus needs a sunny location with well-drained soil. The partially hardy Eucalyptus gunnii is particularly suitable for container cultivation. It grows particularly quickly and luxuriantly in a large pot and can grow up to 50 cm per year under optimal conditions. When planting out in the garden, it is important that the soil is slightly acidic and well-drained to avoid waterlogging. Always use a drainage layer to drain excess water and protect the roots.
FAQ: Planting eucalyptus
What type of soil does the eucalyptus need?
Eucalyptus needs well-drained, slightly acidic soil to develop optimally.
How fast does the eucalyptus grow?
Depending on the species, the eucalyptus can grow up to 50 cm per year.
Eucalyptus in a tub - perfect for balconies and terraces
The eucalyptus in a tub is ideal for balconies or patios. Use a large planter with sufficient space for rapid growth. Eucalyptus is ideal as a container plant as it can be flexibly brought indoors when the temperatures drop. Ensure regular watering with low-lime water and avoid waterlogging to prevent the roots from drying out.
FAQ: Eucalyptus in a tub
How big should the planter for the eucalyptus be?
The planter should be large enough so that the roots have enough space and the eucalyptus can grow well.
How often should I water the eucalyptus in the container?
Make sure you water the eucalyptus regularly to avoid waterlogging. Low-lime water is best.
Flowering time
If you want to decorate your garden with eucalyptus trees, you should bear in mind that they look particularly beautiful when they are in bloom. They usually flower in winter or spring, depending on the variety and species, such as the Eucalyptus gunnii, which is a hardy eucalyptus that is ideal for mild climates. During this time, the eucalyptus tree looks particularly decorative.
The flowers of the eucalyptus are small but colourful and give your garden a special atmosphere that impresses at any time of year. In addition to the flowers, long shoots grow that can be easily pruned, as the eucalyptus is very tolerant of pruning. Especially if the eucalyptus is in a pot or container on the balcony or patio, it is important to prune it regularly to encourage bushy growth.
Eucalyptus gunnii flowers less frequently than other varieties, but its colourful leaves and long shoots make it one of the most popular varieties. Make sure that the eucalyptus grows quickly and vigorously if it is given the right conditions, such as a sunny location and well-drained soil. Whether planted as an evergreen plant in the garden or in a container, the eucalyptus brings colour to any environment.
FAQ: Flowering time
During the growth phase, the eucalyptus needs a lot of water. Use low-lime water or rainwater for watering, as lime damages the plant. Make sure that theroot ball never dries out completely, as theleaves on the eucalyptus evaporate a lot of water. The eucalyptus should be fertilised once a week to promote growth. Aliquid fertiliser with a high nitrogen content is particularly suitable. In winter, you can use a potassium-rich fertiliser to prepare the plant for the cold season.
FAQ: Watering and fertilising eucalyptus
Which water is suitable for eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus should be watered with low-lime water or rainwater.
How often should the eucalyptus be fertilised?
A nitrogen-rich liquid fertiliser should be applied once a week during the growing season.
Hardy eucalyptus species and overwintering
Although many eucalyptus species are not fully hardy, the mustard gum eucalyptus (*Eucalyptus gunnii*) can overwinter outdoors in mild regions. If you keep your eucalyptus in the garden or in a tub, you should bring it into frost-free winter quarters or protect it with jute or reeds in the event of heavy frost. A hardy eucalyptus such as Eucalyptus gunnii can withstand temperatures down to -10°C. If the eucalyptus loses its leaves in winter, this could be a sign of drought or frost damage.
FAQ: Hardy eucalyptus species and overwintering
Is the Eucalyptus gunnii hardy?
Yes, the Eucalyptus gunnii is partially hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -10 degrees.
How do eucalypts overwinter in a pot?
Place the eucalyptus in frost-free winter quarters or protect it outside with jute or reeds.
Characteristics of the eucalyptus
- Leaf shape: Evergreen, silvery-blue.
- Height of growth: Up to 5 metres in containers, up to 100 metres in the wild.
- Flowers: Small, cream-coloured flowers, appear in winter or spring.
- Fragrance: Gives off an intense, pleasant aroma.
FAQ: Characteristics of the eucalyptus
How tall does the eucalyptus grow in a tub?
Eucalyptus can grow up to 5 metres high in containers, depending on the species and the growing conditions.
Why does the eucalyptus lose its leaves?
Eucalyptus can lose its leaves if it receives too little sunlight or suffers from drought.
Wintering eucalyptus - how to keep it healthy
In winter, the eucalyptus should be protected from frost. A bright and cool room is ideal for overwintering. At temperatures between 5 and 15 degrees, the eucalyptus can overwinter in a conservatory or south-facing window. Eucalyptus in containers should also be covered in case of frost to prevent damage. Make sure that the eucalyptus is not too dry, otherwise it may lose its leaves.
FAQ: Overwintering eucalyptus
How can I protect my eucalyptus in winter?
Bring the eucalyptus into a frost-free winter habitat or protect it outside with a fleece or reed cover.
What is the ideal location for the eucalyptus in winter?
A bright, cool room with temperatures between 5 and 15 degrees is ideal for overwintering the eucalyptus.
Pests and diseases
Eucalyptus is a robust plant that is rarely attacked by pests. Nevertheless, spider mites or scale insects can occur under unfavourable conditions. These should be controlled at an early stage as they can damage thefoliage. You should also ensure that the plant receives sufficient water and nutrients to stay healthy. A healthy eucalyptus shows its vitality through strong, green leaves and bushy growth.
FAQ: Pests and diseases
What pests can attack eucalypts?
Occasionally spider mites or scale insects can occur, especially in dry air or unfavourable conditions.
How do I prevent pests on eucalyptus?
Keep the plant healthy by watering and fertilising it regularly. Ensure good air circulation and combat pests at an early stage.
Eucalyptus oil and its significance
Eucalyptus is not only an ornamental plant, but is also known for the extraction of eucalyptus oil. This is often used in aromatherapy as it has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves of Eucalyptus globulus in particular are rich in these essential oils, which are known for their healing properties.
FAQ: Eucalyptus oil and its importance
What is eucalyptus oil used for?
Eucalyptus oil is often used in aromatherapy and helps with respiratory diseases as it has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Which type of eucalyptus is particularly rich in essential oils?
Eucalyptus globulus in particular is rich in essential oils and is often used to produce eucalyptus oil.
Toxicity of eucalyptus
Although eucalyptus is a food source for koalas, eucalyptus leaves are toxic to humans and pets. Avoid eating the plant and keep it away from children and pets. Make sure the eucalyptus is safe in your household and not accidentally consumed.
FAQ: Toxicity of eucalyptus
Are eucalyptus leaves poisonous to humans?
Yes, eucalyptus leaves are poisonous to humans and pets and should not be consumed.
How can I keep the plant safe indoors?
Make sure the plant is out of the reach of children and pets to avoid accidental consumption.
Conclusion
Whether as a houseplant, potted plant or in the garden - the eucalyptus is an easy-care and decorative addition. Make sure to water the plant regularly, avoid waterlogging and provide it with a suitable fertiliser if necessary. With the right, careful care, you will be able to enjoy this versatile trend plant for a long time. If you want to utilise your eucalyptus to its full potential, make sure you give it the right location and care.
Discover more types of flowers in our encyclopaedia
Delve deeper into the world of flowers and find out more about their meaning, care and origin:
*Note: If you click on a link that corresponds to the current page, the page will be reloaded.