This web page advertising the Eucalyptus gunnii Cider Gum highlights its cold hardiness, making it the most suitable Eucalyptus species for colder climates. It can tolerate temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius for brief periods, which makes it a popular choice for planting as an ornamental tree across the British Isles and parts of western Europe.
Aside from its cold tolerance, the Eucalyptus gunnii also has medicinal properties. The essential oil found in its leaves is a powerful antiseptic and is used worldwide for relieving coughs, colds, sore throats, and other infections. It is also a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cold remedies.
In terms of growth, the Eucalyptus gunnii is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 37 meters tall when mature. Its growth rate can reach up to 1.5 meters per year. This tree can produce a sweet sap, which is obtained by making wounds in the bark during spring. A tapped trunk can yield up to 1 liter of sap per day.
The Eucalyptus gunnii is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree with a short, massive bole and large, spreading branches. Its bark can be persistent as a thin, grey stocking or shed to reveal a smooth, yellowish, patchy surface. The leaves are stalked, elliptical to ovate, concolorous, and grey-green in color.
Cultivation-wise, the Eucalyptus gunnii is known for its exceptional cold tolerance and is commonly planted as an ornamental tree. It can also be maintained as a small shrub through pruning and grows best in loamy soil. Sandy/chalky soils and very wet sites are not suitable for its growth.
In addition to its ornamental value, the Eucalyptus gunnii is being considered for cultivation for its sweet sap, which can be fermented to resemble apple cider. The foliage of this tree is also eagerly eaten by livestock.
Overall, the Eucalyptus gunnii Cider Gum is a versatile tree that combines cold hardiness, medicinal properties, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes in colder climates.