Dwarf Eucalyptus Tree Types

Eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus spp.) range widely in size and appearance. There are about 500 species of this plant, according to Cornell University. Some are towering giants, reaching heights of more than 100 feet. Others are much smaller. Some grow on multiple trunks, like shrubs. Home gardeners usually desire dwarf eucalyptus trees for their small, manageable stature and pleasing scent.

Dwarf Sugar Gum

This eucalyptus is not a cultivated dwarf, but rather a true species of eucalyptus that is naturally small. The tree grows to an average height of 15 feet and grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 11. This moderate-growing small eucalyptus prefers locations with full sunlight and loamy or sandy soil. It has attractive, smooth bark that sheds to reveal cream, yellow or gray wood underneath, according to Australia Plants. The white flowers of the dwarf sugar gum bloom in the spring.

'Edna Walling' or 'Little Snowman'

The small, or dwarf form of Eucalyptus pauciflora grows to about 20 feet tall. In the spring, this tree has thick, waxy, dark-green leaves and is covered with small white flowers, giving rise to one of its common names of "Little Snowman." Eucalyptus pauciflora can tolerate brief periods of cold weather and frost. It grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 10b and prefers full sun or partially shady conditions with moist, sandy or loamy soil.

'Dry White'

The dwarf Eucalyptus elata "Dry White" is a small, narrow tree with an attractive, dense canopy that smells like peppermint, according to Austraflora. The plant often grows on multiple trunks, but can be trained to grow on one trunk. This tree reaches maximum heights of around 18 feet and thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10. Eucalyptus elata will grow on all types of soil as long as the soil is kept continually moist, and prefers light shade or full sunlight.

'Euky Dwarf'

"Euky dwarf" is a popular dwarf form of Eucalyptus leucoxylon. This small tree only reaches heights of about 15 feet, making it the choice for smaller home landscapes. In addition, the showy flowers, which are pink or red, last longer than many other species of eucalyptus, according to Austraflora. This tree grows best in sunny conditions or light shade, and will grow on all soil types as long as the soil is well draining. Eucalyptus leucoxylon dwarf grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and 10.