Eucalyptus urnigera

This very shapely and adaptable tree is similar to E. gunnii with its small, silvery-green, round, juvenile leaves, but a more ornamental tree with glossier foliage, better habit and its peeling bark shows off more colorful patches of pink, grey ,white, brown and olive. Typically reaching 30-40' in cultivation, it has been known to reach 140' in its native habitat; its lovely branching pattern makes it a good choice for screening or specimen and it can be held, at least for a few years, in a large pot; a very aromatic leaves have delicious hints of cinnamon. S/M-D

Urn Gum wants to know, why does Cider Gum get all the attention? After all, E. urnigera is from Tasmania too, and has everything E. gunnii does: cute, round juvenile leaves, vigorous growth to 80' or more in gardens, and the ability to thrive in cool climates. It's not fair! I have been growing this species for many years, and I consider it to be similar to E. gunnii in general, but of superior ornamental worth. The leaves are usually glossier, for one; the tree has a better habit than most forms of E. gunnii, and the bark is usually smoother with more colors. Other differences from E. gunnii include the crenulate ('ruffled') margins of juvenile leaves, and cool urn-shaped seed capsules, from which the tree gets its common name. Plant both, and see which one you like better! Given full sun, it will grow on most any soil capable of supporting plant life, but will grow faster with some moisture. Hardy to 0 - 5 °F.