Eucalyptus trees have glossy, green leaves and an aromatic fragrance. Originally from Australia, eucalyptus can grow throughout the UK. They grow quickly, with some growing up to 1.8 m (6 feet) a year and can grow up to 12 m (40 feet) tall. They are adaptable to a variety of soil conditions and are very drought tolerant. Eucalyptus trees can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings, though they do not root easily.

  • Eucalyptus trees have glossy, green leaves and an aromatic fragrance.
  • They grow quickly, with some growing up to 1.8 m (6 feet) a year and can grow up to 12 m (40 feet) tall.

Remove semi-hardwood stem tips around 10 cm (4 inches) long with healthy leaves in the spring or early summer. Ensure that the stems are kept damp by wrapping them in a moist paper towel.

Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem using a sharp knife.

Dust the cut end to be planted with rooting hormone. Tap off any excess from the stem.

Fill a planting flat with a rooting mixture of equal amounts of coarse sand and potting soil. Water the soil to dampen the mixture.

  • Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem using a sharp knife.
  • Fill a planting flat with a rooting mixture of equal amounts of coarse sand and potting soil.

Insert half of each cutting into the rooting mixture. Tent the cuttings with a clear plastic bag. Place the cuttings in a warm, sunny area. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not wet.

Watch for growth in four to 10 weeks. As the cuttings begin to form leaves, remove the plastic bag.

Transplant the cuttings to individual gallon containers filled with potting soil once the cuttings become well rooted.