Bookleaf Mallee Eucalyptus Tree
A simply stunning eucalyptus that has perhaps the most entrancing foliage of any species in the genus (big claim, we know!) Foliage is stacked tightly and geometrically along the stem and is silvery blue and somewhat similar to the Baby Blue eucalyptus so adored by florists. The Bookleaf Mallee grows as a small and multi-branched eucalyptus which they often refer to as a mallee down under. Pale yellow flowers encircle the stem on last year’s growth and look spectacular against the silvery blue foliage. The only drawback on this species is it’s not quite completely cold hardy here! It can tolerate light frosts down to 20 F. and we’re hoping that the presence of its lignotuber might make it possible for it to sprout back after being damaged by frost. Mulch heavily and site in a warm spot. In frost free climates it is one of the most choice small eucalyptus you might ever come across.
Latin Name: Eucalyptus kruseana
Site and Soil: Full sun and well-drained soil. Very drought tolerant once established and will need little to no supplemental watering during the summer season.
Rootstock Description: Seed grown
Hardiness: Hardy to approx. 20º F.
Size at Maturity: 15 ft. in height by 10 ft. width
Bloom Time: Autumn-Winter
Pests & Diseases: Eucalypts are not bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: 9a or 8b with partial dieback in very cold winters