Native to Australia and Tasmania, the eucalyptus is a resilient and diverse tree with more than 500 species. One of the oldest trees on Earth, the eucalyptus dates back about 50 million years. This hardy species can survive drought and often starts to regrow within several weeks after a forest fire. A number of varieties make excellent choices for shade and landscaping trees, including the Silver Dollar and Blue Gum.
Climate
Eucalyptus trees thrive in warm, wet winters and dry summers, but they are intolerant of colder climates. Regions in South America, South Africa and India grow many varieties of eucalyptus, as well as areas throughout the American South and Southwest. Climates in California, Arizona and Florida and Hawaii provide the best U.S. weather and soil conditions for the eucalyptus.
Size
The eucalyptus ranges from 30 to 200 feet tall. It is common for the tree to reach more than 300 feet in the wild, making the eucalyptus one of the tallest trees in the world. Depending on the species, it can grow 5 feet per year or more. The height of the eucalyptus makes it a good choice as a windbreak near a house.
Flowers
The color of the eucalyptus flower varies from white, pink, red to yellow. It grows in delicate clusters that resemble small powder puffs. The flowers also produce nectar that is Australia's main source of honey. The seed pods are cone shaped with a bluish color when ripe, and they contain small, hard black seeds. Its bark is gray-blue and peels away in long stringy strips to expose the yellow flesh. With its aroma and colorful flowers, the eucalyptus is an excellent landscaping tree to attract birds and butterflies.
Leaves & Oil
The leaves of the eucalyptus produce a waxy oil that coats the foliage to prevent water loss in hot weather. The fragrant oil gives off the characteristic smell of eucalyptus, which attracts bees to the flowers. A multipurpose oil, eucalyptus is used in ore production, perfumes, lozenges and chest rubs. Slender and sickle-shaped, the leaves are a favorite food of koala bears and kangaroos. A eucalyptus is termite resistant and its strong scent repels wildlife such as deer.
Timber
The timber from a eucalyptus tree is called Tasmanian oak or White Mountain ash. The wood is hard, heavy and sturdy, often replacing oak in home construction and furniture making. Less expensive than oak, eucalyptus veneer is a common alternative in many decorative woodworking projects.
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