Eucalyptus argophloia

Cultivation Details

Eucalyptus argophloia is native to the subtropical climate of eastern Australia, where it is found at elevations up to 340 metres. Rainfall occurs mainly in the summer, with a mean annual rainfall within the range 475 - 650mm. The mean maximum temperature of the hottest month is 32°c; mean minimum temperature of the coldest month is 4°c, and there are generally around 10 - 15 frosts a year^[1]. Requires a sunny position, growing in the wild on grey or brown cracking clays with self-mulching surfaces or on red loams^[1]. Established plants are tolerant of drought^[1]. A fast-growing species in suitable conditions^[1]. The plant develops a lignotuber - this is a woody tuber that starts to develop near the base of seedlings and can become massive in the mature plants of some species. It possesses embedded vegetative buds, allowing the plant to regenerate following crown destruction, for example by fire^[2]. The tree responds well to coppicing^[1]. This species has little potential for planting as a timber crop - it appears to be sensitive to conditions in its natural habitat and is also highly susceptible to termites. It may give poor survival when planted away from its native habitat^[1]. Eucalyptus species have not adopted a deciduous habit and continue to grow until it is too cold for them to do so. This makes them more susceptible to damage from sudden cold snaps. If temperature fluctuations are more gradual, as in a woodland for example, the plants have the opportunity to stop growing and become dormant, thus making them more cold resistant. A deep mulch around the roots to prevent the soil from freezing also helps the trees to survive cold conditions^[3]. Many members of this genus are remarkably adaptable however, and there can be a dramatic increase in the hardiness of subsequent generations from the seed of survivors growing in temperate zones^[3].