Silver Dollar Gum, Mealybug Gum
eucalyptus pulverulenta
Also known as: ["Mealybug Gum","Baby Blue Gum"]
Overview
A small, decorative eucalyptus tree native to Australia, known for its round, silvery-blue juvenile leaves and fragrant foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Eucalyptus |
| Botanical Name: | Eucalyptus pulverulenta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"7–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix with sand, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in summer; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; monitor for heat stress.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); indirect light; warm (70–75°F/21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prevents root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold); wilting or leaf drop (heat).
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may drop or turn yellow; susceptible to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use frost cloth if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced growth in extreme heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEucalyptus pulverulenta is toxic to cats, causing gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms upon ingestion. The essential oils are particularly harmful to felines due to their sensitivity to certain terpenes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicEucalyptus pulverulenta is toxic to dogs, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects due to the presence of eucalyptol and other terpenes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEucalyptus pulverulenta contains compounds that can cause mild to moderate toxicity when ingested. The essential oils, particularly eucalyptol, are the primary toxic components, affecting the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eucalyptus pulverulenta toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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