A eucalyptus can grow up to five meters in height. With such a large tree, it is impossible to bring it indoors in winter to protect the plant from frost. Therefore, when buying a eucalyptus, you should pay close attention to its properties and preferably choose a winter-hardy variety. On this page you will find out which varieties meet these requirements and whether additional winter protection is still necessary.
Which eucalyptus is hardy?
The hardy Eucalyptus gunii is the only frost-proof variety that can survive down to -20°C. Additional root protection is recommended for potted plants. Other types of eucalyptus are less frost-resistant and should be brought indoors in winter.
Is my eucalyptus hardy?
The eucalyptus originally comes from warm Australia and Tasmania. For this reason, a location in full sun is essential given the local climate conditions. Frost protection is urgently needed in winter. Only one variety, the Eucalyptus gunii (see below), can withstand temperatures down to -20°C. If you are unsure whether your eucalyptus is a hardy tree, the flowers serve as a helpful guide. Depending on the variety, the eucalyptus blooms either
- cream white
- yellow
- or red
Red and yellow flowering eucalyptus species are not frost resistant under any circumstances.
Eucalyptus gunii
Not only that this variety is the only winter-hardy eucalyptus species in existence. The eucalyptus Azura also impresses with its intense, blue foliage color. It is also considered particularly easy to care for, as it grows very slowly, growing at just 40 cm per year.
Overwintering eucalyptus
But there are also restrictions with the Eucalyptus Azura. Only trees that are outdoors are absolutely winter-proof. For potted plants, you should also cover the roots with a protective layer of mulch. When it comes to overwintering a eucalyptus, you can be on the safe side with the following tips:
- Overwinter the eucalyptus indoors.
- Temperatures of 5°C are recommended.
- The location should be sunny.
- Short the branch tips before the tree moves into its winter quarters.
- Before the rest period ends, a strong pruning is carried out.
- Do not put the eucalyptus back outdoors until the night frosts have subsided.
Beware of false information
Surprisingly, you may find eucalypts in stores that are declared to be conditionally winter-hardy. Better not rely on this promise. Often the information only refers to a few degrees below freezing point. Unfortunately, these species are not as robust as the Eucalyptus gunii.
