Ornamental Eucalyptus in Big Containers: Tamed Giants

We have seen that certain Eucalyptus species can easily reach giant sizes in relatively short periods of time. With such a biodiversity within this plant genus (hundreds of species, subspecies, varieties and cultivars) giantism is luckily not always present for all types of gum trees. But a good deal of eucalypt knowledge worldwide has to do with their applications for timber production, and in such cases fast growth, good form and suitability to resist frost events by winter are some of the initial important considerations. However, for the urban gardener, especially if with limited space, alternative options need of some consideration.

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Frost tolerance: -15ºC to -20ºC
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Here you have four examples of tamed cold hardy ornamental Eucalyptus achieving their final destination as plants in big containers, whose frost tolerance makes them suitable for cultivation outdoors in USDA Zone 8 gardens and favourable microclimates of USDA Zone 7 gardens. Some of these can reach giant sizes if planted out and not subject to size control, but can also be kept as container plants with a shrubby habit.

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Frost tolerance: -12ºC to -17ºC
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Frost tolerance: -12ºC to -15ºC
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Cold tolerance: -8ºC to -12ºC
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These relatively manageable sizes and shapes need frequent maintenance, especially during the peaks of growth season. Pruning operations must be performed in order not to lose the desired shapes because generally these plants have a strong tendence to develop new leader branches and grow fast to capture more light.

Ocasional training can be necessary, for which some of the bonsai techniques can be applied, just keeping in mind that growth rates (both branch length and calliper) are still very fast compared to other tree species.

Versatile plants, Eucalyptus can be grown in many ways. If you want to add a piece of Australia to your timber planting, big yard, small yard... or no yard... you can!