Eucalyptus gunni'Silver Drop' Eucalyptus, sometimes called a "Cider Gum", is a great
aromatic herb and has a lovely, small, silvery leaf . These stems work well in any arrangement and can be used both fresh and dried. Add this great filler to your flower garden for its height as a background plant and its unusual but beautiful look. A more cold-hardy variety of the Eucalyptus family, 'Silver Drop' has thrived on our farm here in zone 7, despite the harsh winters we sometimes get!
Medicinally, the essential oils from Eucalyptus 'Silver Drop' are used to relieve respiratory and sinus congestion and infection, rashes, sores and asthma. These oils are also used in deodorants, bath oils, shampoos and in Aromatherapy products.
Eucalyptus is easy to grow and maintain, both in the ground or in a
container. It can be brought indoors to winter over, but be sure to give it lots of sunshine or this Tasmanian native won't grow happily.
Eucalyptus gunnii
Characteristics: Eucalyptus is perennial in Zones 7-11.
Light: This plants prefers full sun.
Water: Keep this lovely herb moist, but avoid constant 'wet feet.'
Soil: Not very fussy about soil but wants full sun and good drainage.
Use: An ideal filler for fresh or dried arrangements, Eucalyptus dries well and keeps its scent and shape for a long time. Also a beautiful plant for the background of your garden as it has an interesting color and shape, and contrasts nicely with colorful blooms.
One of my favorite plants in the test garden for its rounded leaves that change colors with the season to a slightly pink tinge when cold. A fantastic aroma when picked fresh and crushed.