Eucalyptus neglecta (06/01/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Flowering period: Summer
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 10m
Eventual Spread: 5m
Hardiness: 6b – 10b
Family: Myrtaceae
Eucalyptus neglecta is a small evergreen tree or large shrub with an initial fast growth rate, slowing notably as it matures. Its grey/ green leaves appear in juvenile and adult forms and are aromatic when crushed. The juvine leaves are rounded with entire margins, up to 17cm long, 14cm broad and have a purple edge in colder weather. Its adult leaves are lanceolate with entire margins. Its yellow/ green to grey/ brown bark is smooth. Its white flowers an appear in clusters of up to 15 along the length of the branches and usually appear in the leaf axils. Its fruit are cup shaped glaucous seed capsules, known as poricidal capsule.
Eucalyptus neglecta, commonly known as the Omeo Gum, is native to Australia.
The etymological root of the binomial name Eucalyptus is derived from the Greek eu ‘good‘ and kalyptos ’covered’ referring to the calyx which forms a lid over the flowers when in bud. Neglecta is derived from the Latin neglectus meaning ‘taking no notice’, in reference to the robust nature of this tree.
The landscape architect may find Eucalyptus neglecta useful as a small evergreen specimen tree. Once established this tree is drought tolerant.
Ecologically, Eucalyptus neglecta flowers are attractive to bees and pollinating insects.
Eucalyptus neglecta Leaf (06/01/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Eucalyptus neglecta prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It will tolerate wet soils.
Eucalyptus neglecta requires little maintenance.
