Have you ever received a beautiful hand bouquet and been captivated by its calming, fresh scent? Chances are, that lovely aroma came from a few artfully placed stems of eucalyptus. But this wonderfully versatile plant is so much more than just a single look or fragrance. There are hundreds of varieties out there, each with its own unique charm.
Let's explore some of the most popular types of eucalyptus that bring beauty and a touch of nature into our homes.
1. Silver Dollar Eucalyptus
This is perhaps the most iconic type used in floristry, recognised by its distinctive, round, silvery-green leaves that resemble large coins.
These leaves grow along pliable stems, making them perfect for adding soft volume and a muted, elegant colour to wedding bouquets and home arrangements. Its classic shape pairs beautifully with almost any flower, providing a lush backdrop.
2. Baby Blue Eucalyptus
Baby Blue Eucalyptus is loved for its structural quality and stunning colour. Its small, round leaves are neatly arranged in pairs, tightly clasping a stiff, upright stem which gives it a fantastic architectural look. This variety is perfect for adding height and a pop of dusty blue-green to modern arrangements, and it dries beautifully, retaining its shape.
3. Seeded Eucalyptus
If you want to add wonderful texture and a touch of rustic charm, Seeded Eucalyptus is the ideal choice. It features delicate, pointed leaves alongside clusters of small, button-like seed pods that give bouquets a unique, multi-dimensional look. This type is a favourite for autumnal arrangements and adds an organic, slightly wild feel to floral designs.
4. Feather Eucalyptus
Also known as Willow-Leaved Eucalyptus, this variety brings a sense of softness and movement to any display. Its long, slender green leaves hang gracefully from thin stems, creating a beautiful draping effect much like willow branches.
Feather Eucalyptus is perfect for cascading bouquets or arrangements where a gentle, elegant touch is needed.
5. Gunnii Eucalyptus
Gunnii Eucalyptus, or Cider Gum, is a wonderfully versatile and classic option for floral work. In its juvenile form, it boasts charmingly round, silvery-blue leaves that are a florist's staple for adding subtle colour and fullness.
It’s a hardy choice that works just as well in a rustic, countryside-themed bouquet as it does in a sleek, contemporary vase.
6. Spiral Eucalyptus
This is a truly eye-catching variety that adds a unique visual twist to arrangements. The silvery-blue leaves grow in a tight spiral formation directly up the main stem, creating a captivating geometric look. Spiral Eucalyptus is strong enough to be a feature on its own in a minimalist vase or can add a bold, structural element to larger compositions.
7. Moon Lagoon Eucalyptus
Moon Lagoon is cherished for its delicate and romantic appearance, featuring clusters of small, finely textured leaves that are almost heart-shaped.
This gives it a soft and airy feel, making it an exceptional filler that adds gentle volume without overpowering the main flowers. Its silvery-green hue also adds a touch of shimmer and elegance to bouquets.
8. Parvifolia Eucalyptus
For a light and wispy effect, Parvifolia Eucalyptus is an excellent choice, with stems covered in an abundance of tiny, pointed green leaves. This creates a fine, feathery texture that is perfect for achieving that 'fresh from the garden' aesthetic in hand-tied bouquets. This variety provides a beautiful textural contrast to flowers with large, solid petals.
9. Knife-Leaf Eucalyptus
Knife-Leaf Eucalyptus offers a distinct and modern look with its uniquely shaped foliage. The grey-green leaves are triangular, resembling small blades arranged neatly along the stem. This interesting shape adds a strong architectural line and a touch of the exotic to floral designs, making it a fantastic choice for contemporary displays.
10. Spinning Gum
Spinning Gum is a botanical curiosity and a wonderfully unique addition to any floral display. Its juvenile leaves are perfectly round and grow in pairs that fuse at the base, making it look as though the stem has speared right through them. This creates a striking visual effect that is both playful and structural, and is a definite conversation piece.
11. True Blue Eucalyptus
Prized for its intense colour and fragrance, True Blue is a standout variety in the eucalyptus family. It features round, silvery-blue leaves that are densely packed along its stems, offering a richer hue than many other types. Its invigorating scent is particularly strong, and it holds its spectacular colour exceptionally well when preserved or dried.
What Is The Best Way To Display Eucalyptus In A Vase?
The best way to display fresh eucalyptus is to use a clean vase arrangement filled with cool water and a flower food solution. First, remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline to prevent bacteria from growing. Then, give the stems a fresh, sharp cut at an angle before placing them in the water.
- Choose the right vase: A tall, sturdy vase works best to support the stems.
- Recut the stems: Every two to three days, trim about an inch off the bottom of the stems.
- Change the water: Fresh water every couple of days keeps the stems hydrated and happy.
- Find a good spot: Keep the vase away from direct sunlight and ripening fruit, as both can shorten its life.
How To Preserve Eucalyptus Stems For Lasting Beauty?
To preserve eucalyptus, the glycerin method works wonderfully, keeping the leaves soft and supple. You create a solution of one part vegetable glycerin to two parts hot water. After crushing the bottom of the fresh stems, you stand them in the solution for two to three weeks until they have absorbed it fully.
- Select fresh stems: Choose healthy, mature stems for the best results.
- Prepare the stems: Use a hammer or rolling pin to gently crush the bottom few inches of each stem. This helps them absorb the glycerin mixture.
- Submerge and wait: Place the stems in a jar with about three inches of the glycerin solution. Keep it in a cool, dark place.
- Check for completion: The leaves will feel soft and may change to a deeper, richer colour when the process is finished.
Conclusion About The Types Of Eucalyptus
Whether you have a fresh bouquet or are trying your hand at preserving, a little bit of care goes a long way. Paying attention to water, light, and preparation will ensure you get to enjoy the beauty and scent of your eucalyptus for as long as possible.
We hope this little guide helps you appreciate the wonderful variety of eucalyptus available. Each type brings its own special character to a room, filling it with natural beauty and a refreshing aroma.
Ready to bring the calming presence of eucalyptus into your home? Explore our arrangements at Windflower Florist with on-time same-day flower delivery in Singapore, or your order is free.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Types Of Eucalyptus
How Long Does Fresh Eucalyptus Last In A Vase?
Fresh eucalyptus stems can last for a surprisingly long time in a vase, often over three weeks with proper care. The key is to change the water every few days and give the stems a fresh trim to ensure they can continue to drink water effectively.
Can I Hang Eucalyptus In My Shower?
Absolutely! This is a very popular trend. The steam from a warm shower helps to release the natural oils in the eucalyptus leaves, creating a wonderfully aromatic, spa-like experience. Simply tie a few stems together and hang them from your showerhead, away from the direct water stream.
Why Are My Eucalyptus Leaves Turning Brown?
Brown leaves on fresh eucalyptus are usually a sign of dehydration. This can happen if the stems were not cut properly, if they are in a draught, or if the water level in the vase is too low. For preserved eucalyptus, browning can occur if it is exposed to too much direct sunlight over a long period.
Is Eucalyptus Safe For Pets?
It is important to note that eucalyptus is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested. The essential oils can cause stomach upset and other issues. It's best to keep eucalyptus arrangements in a location where your curious furry friends cannot reach them.
What Does Eucalyptus Smell Like?
The scent of eucalyptus is often described as clean, camphorous, and invigorating. It has notes of mint, pine, and a hint of honey. Different types can have slightly different scents, with some being more pungent and others having a sweeter undertone.
