If you’ve been searching for a plant that combines elegant beauty, garden versatility, and a natural fragrance that transforms any space, eucalyptus gunnii might be exactly what you’re looking for. Also known as the Cider Gum, this striking Australian native has become one of the most sought-after trees in UK gardens and interiors alike — and right now, search interest in it is climbing fast across Britain.
Whether you want to grow it in your garden, harvest its aromatic branches for home styling, or incorporate it into your wedding décor, eucalyptus gunnii delivers on every level. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Eucalyptus Gunnii Is Trending in the UK
Eucalyptus gunnii has long been a favourite among florists and interior stylists, but it’s currently experiencing a surge in interest right across the United Kingdom. Several factors are driving this renewed enthusiasm.
First, there’s the growing trend for bringing the outdoors in. UK homeowners are increasingly drawn to botanical styling — using real plants and foliage to add texture, scent, and a sense of calm to their living spaces. Eucalyptus gunnii, with its distinctive silvery-blue juvenile leaves and woody stems, fits this aesthetic perfectly.
Second, sustainable living continues to shape purchasing decisions. Rather than buying cut flowers that last a week, many people are choosing to grow their own foliage at home. Eucalyptus gunnii can be coppiced regularly, meaning one plant provides a continuous supply of fresh, fragrant branches throughout the year.
Finally, wedding planners and brides across the UK are increasingly requesting eucalyptus gunnii as a greenery filler in bouquets, table arrangements, and ceremony arches. Its soft, muted tones work beautifully with both wild and formal styling, making it a staple in modern botanical wedding design. You can explore more ideas in our guide to eucalyptus garland décor.
What Makes Eucalyptus Gunnii Special
Native to the highlands of Tasmania and southeast Australia, eucalyptus gunnii is one of the hardiest eucalyptus species available in the UK. It tolerates temperatures as low as -14°C, making it far more suited to British winters than many of its eucalyptus relatives.
The tree grows rapidly — sometimes up to 1.5 metres per year — which can be either a joy or a challenge, depending on how you manage it. Left to its own devices, it becomes a large tree with mature rounded or lanceolate leaves. But when coppiced annually in spring, it remains a manageable shrub and produces an abundance of those coveted round, silver-blue juvenile leaves that stylists and florists prize so highly.
The scent is another defining quality. Eucalyptus gunnii releases a crisp, clean, camphor-like aroma that many people associate with wellness and clarity. Hanging a few fresh branches in the shower is a popular home spa trick — the steam releases the essential oils, creating an instantly reviving experience.
How to Grow Eucalyptus Gunnii in the UK
Growing eucalyptus gunnii in a UK garden is surprisingly straightforward, provided you give it the right conditions from the start. Here’s what works well.
It needs a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Waterlogged ground is its main enemy, so avoid low-lying areas where water collects. It tolerates a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as drainage is adequate. Plant it in spring or early autumn for best results, and water it well during the first growing season.
Young plants are more vulnerable to frost, so in colder northern regions, a simple fleece covering during the first winter can make a significant difference. Once established, however, the plant becomes remarkably resilient.
For gardeners who want to keep their eucalyptus gunnii at a manageable size and maximise the yield of decorative foliage, annual coppicing is the key technique. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recommends eucalyptus gunnii as one of the best hardy eucalyptus species for UK gardens. Cut the stems back hard in early spring, just before new growth begins. Within weeks, a flush of new growth will appear, covered in those beautiful round leaves.
If you’re curious about other eucalyptus varieties suited to British gardens and climates, our in-depth article on eucalyptus tree varieties in the UK covers the full range of options worth considering.
Styling and Home Décor Ideas with Eucalyptus Gunnii
One of the greatest appeals of eucalyptus gunnii is how naturally it slots into a wide variety of styling contexts. Here are some of the most popular ways people are using it right now.
Dried stems make beautiful long-lasting arrangements. Hang bunches upside down in a warm, airy room and they will dry naturally over a few weeks, retaining their colour and fragrance for months. Place them in a tall vase or weave them through a wreath for an elegant, low-maintenance display.
Fresh branches add instant life to any room when placed in a large jug or vase with water. The silver-green foliage creates a calming, organic feel that suits both modern and traditional interiors. Change the water every few days to extend their freshness.
For weddings, eucalyptus gunnii is an outstanding choice for garlands draped along ceremony pews, head tables, and arches. Its flexible stems are easy to work with, and its neutral tones complement florals in every colour palette, from blush and ivory to deep burgundy and white.
In smaller spaces, a few stems tucked into a bathroom or bedroom bring a gentle spa-like fragrance that feels both natural and luxurious. Pair with dried lavender or rosemary for a layered botanical display.
Tips for Buying and Caring for Eucalyptus Gunnii
When buying eucalyptus gunnii for your garden, look for young plants from a reputable nursery and check that the pot is not rootbound. A slightly pot-bound plant will establish more slowly. For styling purposes, freshly cut stems from a florist or farmers’ market are the best choice, as they have the longest vase life.
If you’re buying dried eucalyptus gunnii for home styling, check that the leaves are intact and the scent is still present — this indicates the essential oils haven’t fully evaporated. Store dried stems away from direct sunlight to preserve their colour.
For those who want the look and scent of eucalyptus all year round without the maintenance, high-quality artificial eucalyptus gunnii is worth considering. Modern artificial options are remarkably realistic and pair well with fresh or dried elements in mixed arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eucalyptus gunnii easy to grow in the UK?
Yes, eucalyptus gunnii is one of the hardiest eucalyptus species and is well suited to most parts of the UK. It tolerates frost down to around -14°C and grows in a range of soil types, provided drainage is good. Young plants may need some frost protection in their first winter.
How do I stop my eucalyptus gunnii from getting too tall?
The most effective method is annual coppicing, which involves cutting all the stems back to a low framework in early spring. This keeps the plant compact and encourages the production of the decorative round juvenile leaves that are so popular for styling and floristry.
Can I use eucalyptus gunnii for wedding décor?
Absolutely. Eucalyptus gunnii is one of the most popular greenery choices for UK weddings. Its silvery-blue foliage and flexible stems make it ideal for bouquets, buttonholes, garlands, and ceremony arches. It works beautifully with almost any floral palette and has a subtle, pleasant fragrance.
How long do fresh eucalyptus gunnii branches last in a vase?
Fresh branches typically last one to three weeks in a vase of clean water, depending on the temperature of the room and how recently they were cut. Changing the water every few days and re-cutting the stems at a slight angle will help extend their life.