Eucalyptus sargentii

Cultivation Details

Eucalyptus sargentii is native to the Mediterranean and semi-arid climate of southwestern Australia, where it is found at elevations up to 300 metres. Rainfall can occur in winter or as a result of occasional storms, with a mean annual rainfall within the range 300 - 380mm and irregular periods of several months when there are severe droughts. The mean maximum temperature of the hottest month is 34 - 36°c; mean minimum temperature of the coldest month is 4°c, and there are generally around 25 frosts a year^[1]. When dormant, the plant can survive temperatures down to about -2°c, but young growth is more tender and can be severely damaged at 0°c^[2]. Requires a sunny position, succeeding in a range of light to medium-textured soils of moderate fertility^[2]. Found in the wild on grey or brown sandy loams, frequently in areas where salt is evident on the surface of the soil. It is one of the last species to die in areas of increasing salinity^[1]. Prefers a pH in the range 7 - 8, tolerating 6.5 - 8.5^[2]. It is grown as a street tree in Perth and Adelaide^[1]. This species is one of the most salt-tolerant eucalypts and is resistant to winds, drought and moderate frost; it has demonstrated its tolerance of drought and saline conditions in Mediterranean conditions^{[2, 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].