• Large evergreen tree
• Attractive leaves and striking, peeling bark
• Excellent for flower arrangements
• Size after 20 years : 20m x 10m
Description
The genus Eucalyptus incorporates evergreen trees and shrubs of the Myrtle family. The Cider gum is native to Tasmania and in its natural range grows on uplands at around 1200m where it provides a food source for browsing mammals. However, since its introduction as a tree grown in the outdoor environment in 1846 it has become a popular garden and parkland choice. Commonly grown as a single stemmed tree, or coppiced to produce multi stemmed specimens, it offers stunning bark striped with olive green, grey, yellow and brown. The bark peels in maturity and hangs in attractive ribbons as it sheds. The juvenile leaves are glaucous blue, maturing to a grey green colour. The flowers, although not often seen when grown in the UK, are small, fluffy and white, and give way to small, brown seeds. This tree can be expected to reach a height of 25-30m at maturity, with a dominant crown spread in excess of 8m, and is fast growing achieving heights of 20m+ in just 10-20 years. As such it should only be considered for large gardens or planting schemes where sufficient space can be given to accommodate its impressive stature.
Planting Position
Ideally the Cider gum should only be established in a large garden or parkland setting. Although it can be managed as a coppice (multi stemmed) it must be noted that coppicing is a management practice requiring cyclical works. Lapsed coppice specimens, where appropriate cyclical management is not maintained, are susceptible to failure as the re-growth exceeds its optimum size. This tree will cope with any aspect however, needs to be in a sheltered location in full sun. It is tolerant of any soil type and will also grow on poorly drained soils, although like most trees it does prefer moist but well drained locations. Its soil pH preference is acidic or neutral.
Attributes
The Cider gum is usually planted in the UK for its high amenity value provided by its stunning leaves and bark. The leaves of this tree are commonly used in floristry. Although this is also a common forest tree throughout the temperate world its timber uses are limited to structural timbers, fencing and pallets, fibre board or fuel.
