Botanical profile

Eucalyptus 'Silver Dollar'

Latin name
Eucalyptus gunnii 'Silver Drop'
Common name
Eucalyptus 'Silver Drop'
Type
Non-hardy aromatic shrub
Family
Myrtaceae

The Silver Dollar Eucalyptus is a popular ornamental plant, cherished for its rounded, silvery-blue, aromatic, and highly decorative foliage. Its light and modern appearance makes it an excellent choice for patio containers, contemporary settings, and fresh or dried floral arrangements. In horticulture, it is generally sold under the name Eucalyptus cinerea 'Silver Dollar', although the common name Silver Dollar is also associated with other round-leaved eucalyptus.

In our Quebec climate, this eucalyptus is mainly used as an annual, a patio plant, or a bright indoor plant, as it is not hardy enough to survive winter outdoors. It grows quickly during the warm season and can be pruned to maintain a denser and more compact habit. Its evergreen foliage remains the primary element of its appeal, more so than its flowering, which is rare in potted cultivation.

The Silver Dollar Eucalyptus prefers very bright exposure, ideally in full sun, in well-drained soil or potting mix. It tolerates slight drought better than overwatering, especially when temperatures are cooler. In pots, it adds an elegant silver touch to patios, balconies, and entrances, while providing cut stems that are very popular in decoration.

Care guide

Care level
Moderate

Choosing this plant

Main benefit
Highly decorative aromatic silver foliage for pots and bouquets
Container, terrace, cut foliage, bouquets, Mediterranean garden, architectural plant
Container growing
Excellent container plant in a deep, well-drained pot
Seasonal care
Bring indoors to protect from frost in cold climates; prune lightly to encourage a bushy habit; avoid overwatering
Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Not hardy
Exposure
Full sun
Watering
Moderate; allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings
Humidity
Low to medium humidity; prefers well-drained soil
Fertilization
Light fertilization in spring; avoid over-fertilizing
Soil type
Light, fertile, sandy, and very well-drained soil
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to neutral
Minimum temperature
-10°C
Propagation method
Sowing or cuttings
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Sparse in mild climates
Flower color
Creamy white
Foliage color
Silvery green to silvery blue
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Upright, supple, and branched habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1.5 to 2.5 m (5 to 8 feet)
Width
24 to 48 in (60 to 120 cm)
Growth rate
Rapid growth
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Companion plants
Lavender, rosemary, sage, ornamental grasses
Spacing
60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches)
Harvest period
Foliage: July to October
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.