seeds of Eucalyptus gunnii, Cider Gum

Eucalyptus gunnii also called Eucalyptus perriniana, is a plant species that has its origins in the central plateaux of the Island of Tasmania. Also called Gunnii or Cider gum, Eucalyptus gunnii belongs to the family Myrteceae. The plants are capable of growing at altitudes of 1100 metres as evidenced by the distribution of Cider gum in its native homeland. Eucalyptus gunnii is an evergreen tree whose size lingers between small and medium. A miniature-sized trunk and large branches characterize older plants of the species. There’s regular shedding of the bark which leaves behind a smooth surface. In addition to being sickle-shaped and elliptical, the leaves are 8 cm by 3cm in length and width. Younger plants have foliage that has a bluish hue which slowly changes to green the more the plant matures. Flowers bloom midway through the summer and grow in clusters. Eucalyptus gunnii has garnered a reputation for itself over the years for its ability to cope with cold weather conditions. The plant is able to withstand temperature drops of up to -14 ˚C comfortably. The limits of the plant lie at the -20 ˚C mark where it can only handle the cold for a short period before suffering the effects. It is this durability that has made it the ornamental plant of choice in Britain and several countries in Europe. The tree exudes a sweet sap that is similar to maple syrup. It won’t be long before it is harvested for commercial purposes. The tree’s leaves are a favourite food for livestock. Eucalyptus gunnii grows best under a slight bit of shading from the sun. The soils should be well-drained, moist and have a pH that hovers between neutral and slightly acidic. It takes between 10 and 20 years for the plant to reach maturity.