Eucalyptus archeri

Eucalyptus archeri, commonly known as the alpine gum, comes to us from the Tasmanian Alps where it faces challenging climate and soil conditions. While it is similar to the Eucalyptus gunii, well-known to gardeners, it differs with slightly greener foliage, less significant growth, and superior hardiness. Starting as a bush in its youth, it eventually forms a graceful small tree with a light crown and fragrant foliage, decorative even in winter. Its pretty white pompom, winter flowers, and bark gently mottled with pink, grey-green, and white are also noteworthy. An ideal variety for small gardens, adaptable to most regions.   

Eucalyptus archeri is an endemic species found in the northern Central Plateau and Northeast Tasmania. It can be found up to 1000m (3280 ft 10 in) altitude, growing in shallow soil among rocky outcrops, on mountain tops, and in sparse woods. Like all Eucalyptus, it belongs to the myrtle family. It grows relatively quickly, eventually forming a small elegant tree with an oval crown measuring about 8-9m (26 ft 2 in-29 ft 6 in) in height and 4.50m (14 ft 10 in) in width, depending on growing conditions. Its bark is smooth, pale grey or grey-green mixed with pink and white, sometimes with transverse scars. The foliage remains juvenile for 4 or 5 years on its branches. The juvenile leaves are round and small, a very light bluish-grey colour. The adult leaves are pendulous, larger, thinner, and thicker, with an elliptical or lanceolate shape. They are a shiny grey-green to silver-green and when crushed, the foliage emits a typical Eucalyptus scent. Flowering occurs from November to May, depending on the climate and year, typically in February-March. The white flowers are grouped in clusters of 3 at the axils of the leaves. This eucalyptus has a lignotuber just below the surface of the soil. This organ allows it to regenerate from the stump in case of severe frost, fire, or severe pruning. The plant also produces numerous shoots from dormant buds located under its bark, which makes it respond well to pruning and layering. Note that the alpine gum tolerates snow, wind, and sea spray. Its shallow root system is less hazardous to buildings and provides less competition for other plants in the garden. Its foliage only offers very light shade.

Eucalyptus archeri is likely to find its way into our gardens, given its numerous qualities. It works well in predominantly white or silver scenes. It adds an elegant and poetic touch to the garden when planted in hedges with other shrubs, in groups, or as a standalone specimen. Some suggested combinations include pairing it with a coyote willow or a weeping silver pear, both beautifully silver, or a purple hazelnut for contrast. It is easy to maintain, can withstand temperatures down to -18°C (-0.4 °F) once mature and is easily controlled through pruning. Lastly, it is ornamental at all stages of growth, from young to adult. Undemanding in terms of soil, it tolerates clay and some limestone.