Eucalyptus Tree

Mention some of the trees that possess curative properties, and you really cannot miss the tall eucalyptus tree. The high demand of eucalyptus tea and oil clearly indicates the therapeutic importance of this flowering tree. Belonging to the family Myrtaceae, it grows naturally in the warm climatic conditions of the tropics and subtropics. Products derived from eucalyptus tree are so many that it is now cultivated in most regions of the world.

Eucalyptus Tree: Interesting Facts

You can easily identify a eucalyptus tree from its bark and flowers. In fact, the genus name eucalyptus is coined from the Greek words for 'well' (eu) and 'covered' (kalyptos), which is applicable to the operculum that covers the flower before opening. Listed below are some eucalyptus tree facts that will interest you.

• The growth habit of eucalyptus is highly diverse. While some are bushy shrubs, others represent the tallest flowering tree types in the world, with their height measuring more than 200 feet at maturity.
• Most of the eucalyptus tree varieties are evergreen and retain green foliage throughout the year. However, a few species adapted in tropical regions shed leaves during dry season.
• Eucalyptus plant types are classified with respect to their bark, leaf and flower characters. Some species have smooth texture bark after shedding dead outer barks, while others retain dead barks giving a rough appearance.
• The elongated leaves of the eucalyptus tree are borne in alternate fashion and arch downward. Loaded with oil glands, they are used for extraction of eucalyptus oil on a large scale.
• Regarding the eucalyptus oil uses, this fragrant plant-based oil is used as insecticides, deodorants and as antiseptics to avoid infections. It is highly volatile and flammable.
• The eucalyptus flowers lack petals. It is the fused sepals that cover the silky stamens underneath it (called operculum). Based on the species, the stamens are either white, yellowish or pinkish in color.
• Eucalyptus tree is economically important as a major source of timber. Its fast growing ability helps growers in supplying abundant timber within a short span after plantation.

Eucalyptus Tree: Growing and Care

If you are impressed with the eucalyptus tree facts, incorporate it in your landscaping project. With over 700 identified species and many hybrid varieties, you can select hardy cultivar suited for the soil and climatic conditions in your area. When planted in groups along the landscape border, they look great with their peeling barks. Basic information on eucalyptus tree care is discussed below.

• Eucalyptus tree is resistant to prolonged dry spells. So, you don't have to worry much about growing it in dry areas, or irrigating it at frequent intervals. In short, eucalyptus plant requires less maintenance, once it gets established in the soil.
• The best time for planting eucalyptus is late spring or fall. Select the growing areas that receive full sunlight, or at least partial shade condition. It grows well in slightly dry soil, but can adapt in moist soil, as long there is no water logging problem.
• For growing as a part of container gardening, select pots that measure 2-3 feet in diameter. Also, choose varieties (e.g. E. coccifera, E. parviflora, E. crenulata) that perform well in containers.
• Purchase healthy eucalyptus tree saplings (about 2-4 feet) from your local nursery center. Dig soil to make holes that are larger than the root balls. For poor soil conditions, supplement plant nutrients and mix properly.
• Place sapling in the hole, in such a way that the top of the root ball lies in the same level with the soil surface. While planting, do not spread or disturb the root system, as doing so will damage the young roots.
• Except for eucalyptus plants grown in containers, frequent watering and supplying fertilizers are not required. When grown in garden soil, water only during excessive dry conditions.
• Pruning is done to maintain the canopy shape and more importantly, to remove weak or diseased branches. You can trim down branches during summer. When exposed to stressful conditions, they are susceptible to pests like beetles, longhorn borer and wasps. These eucalyptus tree problems can be controlled with insecticide application.

Provided that proper growth conditions are maintained, the eucalyptus tree grows to a height of about 6 feet per year. Hence, if you want fast growing ornamental trees for your landscape design, eucalyptus plant should be the ultimate choice. What's more, your eucalyptus trees will add winter interest to your yard with their glossy foliage, when most of the trees shed their leaves.