Eucalyptus
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For Koala Bears
There are said to be some five hundred species of Eucalyptus, but the following would be our selection of the hardier and ornamental varieties, some hardy down to minus 15°C and some to minus 18°C. Others are more suitable for conservatories or mild locations. Grown readily from seed (this is the only way to propagate them as cuttings are almost impossible to strike), and best planted the following year while still young. Eucalyptus do not like root disturbance and should be carefully pricked out, either very early at the two leaf stage or later, when the plant will handle the shock better. They will need staking and are notorious for falling over, partly because of their fast growing nature and being evergreen they suffer from winter storms. The trick is to stake them very low down allowing them to bend and strengthen but holding the roots steady.
Be aware they grow VERY LARGE VERY QUICKLY. Do not plant one of these near your house!
Germination of eucalyptus seed (most very small in size) can often be erratic and patchy, but on the other hand you don’t need many! Growing from seed is a really good option - easy to raise for stronger plants and for a wider selection of varieties.