Eucalyptus Growing Indoors – Eucalyptus plant with its fragrant properties and coin-shaped foliage makes a wonderful addition to your indoor environment, especially in the bedroom and bathroom. It is very attractive with silvery blue-green aromatic leaves which give off the aroma of menthol. If you are interested in growing eucalyptus indoors, you need to learn how to grow eucalyptus in a container.
Eucalyptus growing indoors
Potted eucalyptus trees can be grown as container perennials until they get so big that they must be planted in the backyard or donated to a park. Eucalyptus houseplants grow so fast that they can be grown as annuals. Pots can be stood outdoors in summer. Pinch out tips to keep growth in check and to maintain the production of juvenile foliage – old leaves are much less attractive.
Young plants of eucalyptus have attractive grey-green leaves which produce a distinctive aroma when crushed. They will flourish under ordinary room conditions if kept well-lit and cool. Keep eucalyptus plant near a window that receives plenty of sunshine. The Eucalyptus needs ample amounts of light to thrive indoors. Make sure that the environmental indoor temperature does not get too hot, however.
Eucalyptus globulus (Blue Gum) grows too tall for indoor cultivation; it is better to choose either the slower-growing Eucalyptus gunnii (Cedar Gum) or Eucalyptus citriodora (Lemon-Scented Gum).
Secrets of success
Temperature: Cool or average warmth. Keep cool (45-55°F) in winter.
Light: This plant does not tolerate shade, so be sure it always has plenty of light. Some direct sun is beneficial. In front of a south facing window works well.
Water: Water regularly from spring to fall. Water sparingly in winter.
Repotting: Repot in spring every year.
Propagation: Sow seeds in spring – germinate at 65°F.
Use: The essential oils derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree are often used as an antiseptic to treat wounds and burns and are added to cough syrups, soaps and cosmetics.
Note: A Eucalyptus grown indoors may not flower. Plants are usually discarded after a couple of years.
