Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue | Florist Silver Dollar

Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue | Florist Silver Dollar

Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue, commonly known as Silver-leaved Mountain Gum or Florist Silver Dollar, is a striking evergreen tree that adds elegance and texture to any garden or floral arrangement. With its unique bluish, white-wash leaves and compact, uniform growth, this variety is perfect for commercial foliage production and landscaping. Native to southeastern Australia, Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue is especially popular in floral design, making it a sought-after choice for florists and growers alike.

Key Features:

• Distinctive Foliage: Small, silvery-grey, round leaves with a white-wash finish.
• Compact Growth: True cut flower type with uniform shoots and short internodes.
• High Germination Rate: Over 85% germination success.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for cut flowers, mixed containers, and landscape planting.
• Native to Southeastern Australia: Thrives in temperate climates with mild winters.

Growing Information:

• Scientific Name: Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue
• Common Names: Silver-leaved Mountain Gum, Florist Silver Dollar, Baby Blue
• Plant Type: Evergreen tree
• Plant Height: 60-90 cm (in containers or pots); up to 2-3 meters in open landscapes
• Sowing Method: 1-3 seeds per plug for optimal growth. Using 2-3 seeds per plug results in fuller plants, particularly for mixed containers. No covering needed; a thin layer of vermiculite can help retain moisture.
• Sowing Period: Spring to early summer
• Time to Germination: 7-9 days at 20-25°C
• Time to Maturity: 120-150 days

Cultivation & Care:

• Germination Temperature: Ideal between 20-25°C; humidity should be maintained at 95-100% for the first 9 days, then reduce to 40-60%.
• Growth Temperature: After germination, grow at 16-18°C nights and 20-21°C days. Avoid temperatures below 12°C, as Eucalyptus does not tolerate frost.
• Fertilization: Eucalyptus Baby Blue requires high fertilization, typically 150-200 ppm per week using a balanced fertilizer (15-5-15 or 17-5-17). For high light conditions, 20-10-20 can be used. Avoid high levels of ammonium.
• Media Requirements: pH of 5.5-6.2 with an EC of <0.75 during germination, and pH 5.5-6.2 with EC 1.25-1.70 during growing on. Alternate between moisture levels wet (4) and medium (2).
• Watering: Keep media saturated for the first 2-3 days, then adjust moisture levels to wet (4) until radicle emergence. Once plants are established, water more frequently during high light and warmer temperatures, and less frequently in cooler conditions.

Additional Details:

• Light Preference: Full sun
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9-11
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.2)
• Plant Spacing: 45-60 cm (for optimal airflow and growth)

Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue, with its striking silvery foliage and compact growth, is an excellent choice for florists, landscapers, and anyone looking to add unique texture to their outdoor space or floral arrangements. Whether grown for foliage production or ornamental use, this variety offers stunning visual appeal and excellent adaptability in various climates.