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Eucalyptus vernicosa

varnished gum

An evergreen shrub notable for its slow-growing habit, reaching around only 1m in height in 4 years. It may eventually reach 3-4m. Leaves are about 5cm across, thickly-textured and highly glossy; ovate to round when juvenile, they are more elongated and are stalked when adult. Flowers, if they appear, are white and held singly

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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Myrtaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Eucalyptus are evergreen trees or large shrubs, often fast-growing, some with attractive bark, most with aromatic foliage, and clusters of small, white, yellow or red flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Australia (Tasmania)

How to grow

Cultivation

Prefers free-draining acid to neutral conditions in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed at 13-18°C in spring and summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

Pruning group 1, or for the best display of juvenile foliage use Pruning group 7.

Pests

May be susceptible to eucalyptus gall wasp and eucalyptus sucker

Diseases

May be susceptible to silver leaf, oedema and honey fungus

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