Your Guide to Eucalyptus Trees: Fragrant Foliage, Fast Growth, and Year-Round Appeal Tree Varieties Eucalyptus trees are beloved for many reasons. Some love these plants for their smooth bark. Others enjoy the crisp, soft scent that rises from their leaves. Still others enjoy the plant’s silver-blue canopy and striking overall form. Though this tree is native to Australia, it’s increasingly popular in landscape design throughout warmer regions of the United States, where it’s known for being a tough, fast-growing, and aesthetically pleasing addition to many properties. With so many types of eucalyptus trees to choose from, it’s easy to find a variety that fits both aesthetic and functional needs for your yard or landscape. If you’re thinking about planting a eucalyptus tree of your own, or if you already have one growing on your property, this guide will walk you through what to expect, eucalyptus tree care basics, and when to seek the help of a qualified arborist. Arborist Tip: Most eucalyptus species thrive in USDA zones 8-11, though a few cold-hardy varieties like snow gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora) may tolerate zone 7 with proper care. Before planting, check your hardiness zone and local regulations. Some areas restrict eucalyptus planting due to their invasive potential and fire risk (which is elevated thanks to the volatile oils found within the tree). How Big Do Eucalyptus Trees Get? Depending on the species and conditions, it’s not unusual for a eucalyptus to shoot up to six feet in a single year. Some varieties, like the towering blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), can eventually reach 100 feet tall or higher. Other varieties tend to top out around 70 feet, and many can be pruned to stay much smaller, depending on your space and goals. That quick growth, while impressive, can be a double-edged sword. If planted too close to buildings, pools, or hardscaping, eucalyptus roots can become a nuisance. And their height can pose risks near power lines or rooftops. That’s why it’s important to plant your eucalyptus in the right spot, often with a 20-30 foot setback for larger species. Not positive if you’ve got enough space for one of these trees to safely grow? Consult with an ISA Certified Arborist to find out for sure. With some advanced consideration, your tree will have plenty of room to thrive, and you can be sure its size won’t pose an issue for you down the line. Choosing the Right Eucalyptus Tree Choosing the right eucalyptus tree for your yard depends on where you live, how much space you have, and the overall look you’re going for, as different types of eucalyptus vary widely in size, growth habit, and cold tolerance. Blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) is a bold, towering species that’s perfect for large open spaces, while argyle apple (Eucalyptus cinerea) is more compact, with soft, rounded leaves that make it popular in floral arrangements. Then there’s snow gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora) which has beautiful, patterned bark and better cold tolerance than most of its cousins. If you’re unsure which of these tree varieties will thrive in your region or on your property, that’s another place where an arborist’s advice can make all the difference. Reach out today and we can help you make the right decision for your property. How to Care for Your Eucalyptus In terms of care, eucalyptus trees are relatively low-maintenance once they’re established. They require six hours of full sun each day, and they don’t do well in poorly-draining soil. But if you choose a suitable planting site, most eucalyptus trees adapt well and grow with minimal fuss. Young trees require regular deep watering to help the roots establish. After that, they should be drought-tolerant and fairly resilient. Proper mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature (as long as mulch is kept a few inches away from the base of the trunk to avoid rot). Knowing when to prune eucalyptus trees is key to healthy growth. Generally, pruning during cooler months helps shape the tree and encourages clean new growth. Common Eucalyptus Tree Problems Despite their resilience, eucalyptus trees aren’t immune to stress, and certain issues can arise if conditions aren’t ideal. Occasionally, insects or environmental conditions can interfere with growth. Psyllids, for example, are tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves, leaving behind dimples or puckering. In humid climates, you might notice powdery mildew, especially on new foliage. And in overly wet conditions, root rot or canker infections can set in. The dotted paropsine leaf beetle is another insect that can harm eucalyptus trees. This invasive species has taken root in Southern California and is rapidly spreading, causing defoliation and even tree death in severe cases. The good news is that these problems are usually treatable, especially with early detection. At SavATree, our certified arborists offer comprehensive insect management, monitoring, and tree disease treatments to help keep your eucalyptus healthy and thriving. Signs That Your Eucalyptus Might Need Help Like any tree, eucalyptus can show signs of stress if something’s off. Sudden leaf drop might be a sign of drought, root issues, or disease. If the bark is splitting or oozing sap, that could point to borers or fungal infections. And if your eucalyptus starts leaning or shifting, especially after rain, the root system may be struggling to stay anchored. All that said, with the right care (and especially with early intervention) many issues can be reversed. And with expert support, you can make sure your eucalyptus not only survives but thrives as a focal point of your landscape. Arborist Tip: Consult with a SavATree ISA Certified Arborist early for preventive care that can catch any issues before they spread, because eucalyptus trees don’t always show stress right away. Expert Care for Your Eucalyptus Tree With a little guidance, your eucalyptus can be a source of beauty, shade, and joy for years to come. Schedule a free consultation with an ISA Certified Arborist, and we’ll tailor a plan to your specific needs and space. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an expert arborist.