Eucalyptus cinerea Silver Dollar | Florists Eucalyptus | Tasmanian Blue

Eucalyptus ‘Silver Dollar’ | Eucalyptus cinerea

Botanical name: Eucalyptus cinerea ‘Silver Dollar’
Common names: Silver Dollar Eucalyptus, Florist’s Eucalyptus, Argyle Apple
Plant type: evergreen ornamental tree
Height: 60–90 cm in containers; up to 6–8 m in favourable outdoor conditions
Seed type: natural, non-pelleted seeds

Eucalyptus ‘Silver Dollar’ is one of the world’s most popular eucalyptus varieties for ornamental foliage and cut greenery. Its rounded, silvery-green leaves have an elegant, frosted appearance. The distinctive coin-shaped foliage adds beautiful texture, volume and a sophisticated colour to bouquets and floral arrangements.

Its aromatic, long-lasting branches are especially popular among florists and are perfect for wedding bouquets, wreaths, table decorations and seasonal arrangements. The foliage can be used both fresh and dried.

Native to southeastern Australia, this fast-growing eucalyptus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. In regions with cold winters, ‘Silver Dollar’ is usually grown as an annual foliage plant. It can also be cultivated in a large container and moved into a bright, cool, frost-free space before the first frost.

Key features

• Rounded, silvery-green leaves
• Elegant foliage with a frosted appearance
• Aromatic and long-lasting branches
• Popular florist foliage
• Fast-growing and easy to shape
• Suitable for garden beds, greenhouses and large containers
• Excellent for fresh and dried arrangements
• Regular cutting encourages new shoot production

Growing information

Sowing period: February to April indoors
Sowing method: surface sow and cover only very lightly with fine compost or vermiculite
Germination time: approximately 14–35 days
Germination temperature: 18–24°C
Time to first harvest: approximately 120–150 days
Position: warm, sunny and protected from strong winds
Plant spacing: approximately 45–60 cm
Recommended soil pH: 5.5–6.5
Soil: light, slightly acidic and well-drained

Sowing and seedling production

Sow the seeds on the surface of moist, fine and well-drained seed compost. Gently press them into the surface and cover with only a very thin layer of fine compost or vermiculite. Avoid sowing the seeds too deeply.

Keep the growing medium evenly moist but not waterlogged during germination. Germination may occur gradually, so patience is sometimes required. Provide the seedlings with plenty of light and good air circulation.

Eucalyptus plants do not appreciate root disturbance. Sow the seeds in deeper plug cells or small pots whenever possible. If transplanting is necessary, handle the seedlings carefully and keep the root ball intact.

Transplanting and care

Gradually harden off the young plants and transplant them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, warm position protected from cold and strong winds.

Water regularly during active growth, but do not allow water to remain around the roots. Let the surface of the soil dry slightly between waterings.

A balanced liquid fertiliser can be applied once a month during the active growing season. Avoid excessive fertilisation.

To encourage bushier plants and produce more florist-quality stems, pinch the young growing tips. Regular harvesting stimulates the formation of new side shoots and helps maintain a compact shape.

Uses in floristry

‘Silver Dollar’ eucalyptus branches are ideal for:

• Bridal and wedding bouquets
• Romantic and contemporary arrangements
• Wreaths and table decorations
• Seasonal and mixed bouquets
• Fresh and dried floral designs
• Large-scale event installations

Its silvery-green foliage combines beautifully with white, cream, blush pink, peach, violet and burgundy flowers.

Important information

Eucalyptus ‘Silver Dollar’ is not reliably hardy in cold climates. Plants intended for overwintering should be moved to a bright, cool and frost-free location before the first frost. Reduce watering during winter.