Eucalyptus nitens

Eucalyptus nitens, the Shining Gum, is a vigourous-growing evergreen tree that is ideal as a tall specimen or a quick exotic-looking windbreak in the larger garden. Capable of growing exceptionally tall and exceptionally fast with a proven ability to stand firm against strong winds, the Shining Gum is the perfect answer for those exotic gardeners who are taming a larger more exposed area and need an effective shelter-belt for their more prized specimens. The Shining Gum is not the most cold-hardy of the Eucalyptus species, although - once  established - will withstand temperatures down to about -12 C and possibly a degree or two lower depending on locality. A planting site that has a favourable microclimate or is located within approximately 20km of the coast or an estuary is ideal. Planting with hardier species like Quercus ilex will also offer further protection.

It has a very tropical-looking foliage with long leaves that combine well with other evergreen species like Prunus lusitanica or Quercus ilex and looks particularly effective when planted with an understory of bamboo. The foliage is intensely fragrant and the young growth has unusual stems that are square-shaped in cross-section. Its bark is a stringy greyish-brown sometimes shedding attractively in long ribbons.

It is a very good firewood tree so any prunings you take can be put to good use and its timber is strong and has a number of uses.

These plants are an incredible bargain and are already over 1m high !!