There are over 700 types of eucalyptus species in the world, mostly hailing from Australia. Each variety shares some common traits, yet they do possess distinct qualities that make them special. Belonging to the genus eucalyptus, these stunning trees and shrubs have become popular in gardens, floral design and even medicine thanks to their striking foliage and valuable essential oils. If you’re revamping your outdoor space and thinking of incorporating a unique evergreen tree into your displays, understanding the different kinds of eucalyptus will help you select a real standout addition.
This blog explores the most popular eucalyptus varieties, highlighting their aesthetic features, basic care tips, and what you can expect from your broader garden when you grow them. We’ll also touch on their uses, growth habits, and tips for creating a healthy eucalyptus forest feel in your own space.
Perhaps the most famous of all, the standard Eucalyptus gunnii, also known as Cider Gum, is a favourite in UK gardens. This common eucalyptus tree is robust, adaptable and stylish. It’s worth noting that it's available in a variety of sizes.
How it looks:
Rounded, silvery eucalyptus leaves in silver blue.
Generally quite smooth bark.
Mature trees can develop slightly peeling bark, adding interest.
Care tips:
Hardy and tolerates cold weather better than most eucalyptus.
Best grown in moist but free-draining soil.
Protection is advised in extreme cold below -5°C.
Often a more compact version of the Cider Gum, the Azura variety is ideal for pots and smaller spaces. It’s also known for having a larger variety. Its foliage is much the same as the standard Eucalyptus gunnii, sometimes being grown in lollipop formations. It’s got a bushier structure, calling for regular pruning. Note that it thrives best in sunny positions.
It’s also worth remembering that there are some other named varieties of Eucalyptus gunnii, with various overlapping characteristics, such as:
Known for its Baby Blue variety, this species is widely planted for its decorative appeal and pleasant scent. It is somewhat bushier than other types and is naturally resistant to many pests.
How it looks:
Dense, silvery-blue and green foliage with highlights.
Naturally compact and bushy – ideal for small containers and pots.
Care tips:
Prefers consistently moist soil.
Prune in spring to encourage new shoots.
The Eucalyptus globulus is a larger tree, known not only as an ornamental species but also a key source of eucalyptus oil, renowned for therapeutic qualities, thanks to its aromatic leaves that release a stunning fragrance when crushed.
How it looks:
Tall in stature (forest-level trees).
Long, lance-shaped leaves.
Small, fluffy blooms and tight green berries.
Care tips:
Best suited to larger gardens or open landscapes due to its size.
Requires sunny conditions.
This native species is another forest-level tree, likely too large for the average British back garden, and is widely planted along riverbanks for its beauty and resilience. It can be an invasive species in certain regions, so planting should be considered carefully.
How it looks:
Tall with broad arching branches.
Long blue-green leaves.
Fluffy white blooms.
Care tips:
Thrives near water but adapts to many soil types.
Mature trees are massive, so ensure plenty of space for growth.
The Snow Gum is an iconic species from cooler regions, able to withstand freezing temperatures. For gardeners in colder climates, it’s a perfect choice, and it's available in both garden-friendly and more landscape-suitable sizes.
How it looks:
Distinct mottled bark that flakes into patches of various colours.
Narrow grey-green leaves.
Care tips:
Prefers sunny spots and plenty of space.
It tolerates frost well, making it one of the best eucalyptus types for challenging climates.
Silver Dollar is a eucalyptus lover’s favourite, easily recognisable for its similar, but more spindly, look to the gunnii variety. Its adult leaves hold their shape well when dried, making them a staple in floral arrangements.
How it looks:
Distinct round foliage, almost coin-shaped, with a silvery sheen that glows in full sun.
Thin, somewhat reddish stems and branches.
Care tips:
Silver Dollar Eucalyptus prefers free-draining soil and thrives in full sun.
It grows quickly, so regular pruning is necessary to keep it compact.
Often referred to as the whimsical cousin in the gum tree family, Gumdrop Eucalyptus (also known as button leaf) offers compact foliage that suits container planting or use in biophilic decorations. As with many native species, its charm lies in the various ways homeowners and gardeners can enjoy it.
How it looks:
Small, rounded green leaves with a compact habit, sometimes tinged with red.
Thin twigs and stems
Care tips:
Keep in a pot with well-drained soil.
Protect from frost during harsh winters.
Parvifolia is a compact variety, also known as small-leaved gum, suited for smaller gardens or urban spaces. Despite its modest size, it still produces those signature eucalyptus white flowers in the right conditions, attracting pollinating insects. The parvula variety is the larger cousin of the Parvifolia.
How it looks:
Narrower blue-green leaves.
A more upright growth than other shrubby varieties.
It can feature peeling bark when more mature.
Care tips:
Hardy in cooler climates and performs well in pots.
Regular pruning ensures neat growth, while it can.
As the name suggests, this type has long, slender leaves reminiscent of willow trees. It’s also known as Narrow-leaved Peppermint. It is widely planted in landscapes and larger outdoor spaces for its ornamental appeal, and it can also be a house or patio plant.
How it looks:
Long, flowing leaves with a subtle silvery tone.
Thin, reddish stems.
Care tips:
Requires regular watering when young but adapts well as it matures.
Looks striking planted en masse for a naturalistic eucalyptus forest effect.
While each variety has its quirks, there are some universal rules for growing many species of eucalyptus successfully:
Plant in full sun or partial shade.
Use free-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Water regularly for the first few years until established.
Fertiliser is rarely necessary, as most eucalyptus adapt to poorer soils.
Be mindful that planting directly in beds can create an invasive species risk. Containers are often a safer choice.
Watch for pests – although most eucalyptus are resistant to major infestations, vigilance helps.
If you’re interested in buying eucalyptus for your garden or greenhouse, look no further than One Click Plants. It’s worth noting that we might not have all of the varieties of eucalyptus described above in stock at all times. Still, we do rotate our stock and work to bring our customers the best, professionally grown varieties whenever possible.
Eucalyptus is generally not for indoor growing as it can be invasive, but some of the more compact varieties are suitable. Make sure to check each specific variety's care details before you purchase.
Absolutely! Eucalyptus is famous for drying well while retaining both scent and structure. The adult leaves of Silver Dollar and Baby Blue are particularly popular in floral arrangements.
The Snow Gum and Cider Gum are both well-suited to cold weather, but most varieties are evergreen and can withstand frost throughout the year.
Propagation is possible but can be tricky. Many gardeners prefer to grow from seed, though with care and patience, cuttings can root successfully.
By understanding the wide range of eucalyptus available – from the elegant gum tree giants to compact patio varieties – you’ll be able to choose the perfect fit for your garden or home.
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