Overview
Eucalyptus cordata is a spreading branched trees in the genus Eucalyptus, part of the Myrtaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Eucalyptus cordata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include architectural, coastal, cottage and informal garden, mediterranean climate plants, low maintenance and cut flowers.
About
Eucalyptus cordata, commonly known as silver gum, is a spreading branched evergreen tree from the Myrtaceae family. Like other Eucalyptus species, it features fragrant leaves and clusters of small flowers. This cultivar thrives in full sun with a sheltered aspect, preferring moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils with an acid to neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H3, it suits coastal and Mediterranean-style gardens, offering architectural interest throughout winter. It is best propagated by seed sown in spring or summer at 13-18°C.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eucalyptus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Eucalyptus cordata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Low Maintenance, Cut flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eucalyptus cordata
- Propagation
- Seed at 13-18°C in spring and summer
- Pest resistance
- Eucalyptus gall wasp, Eucalyptus sucker
- Disease resistance
- Silver leaf, Oedema, Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Eucalyptus cordata?
Eucalyptus cordata prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Eucalyptus cordata need?
Eucalyptus cordata grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Eucalyptus cordata hardy in the UK?
Eucalyptus cordata has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Eucalyptus cordata?
Seed at 13-18°C in spring and summer.
More in the Eucalyptus genus
- Eucalyptus dealbata
- Eucalyptus divesbroad-leaved peppermint
- Eucalyptus melliodorayellow box
- Eucalyptus nobilis
- Eucalyptus pulchellawhite peppermint gum
- Eucalyptus radiatanarrow-leaved peppermint
- Eucalyptus salignasaligna gum
- Eucalyptus sepulcralisweeping gum
