Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. pauciflora Buffalo

Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. pauciflora 'Buffalo' is also known as the Snow Gum of Mount Buffalo. This small tree or large evergreen shrub with multiple trunks will be appreciated for its highly ornamental bark, where shades of grey, white, and cream blend together. It has a spreading habit, forming a more or less rounded crown. Its juvenile foliage is also very attractive, with leaves of an unusual ovoid shape and a bluish-green colour. The white flowering in small pompons is an additional asset for this species, one of the most adaptable of all. Growing in acidic, neutral, or even chalky soils, it is one of the hardiest in its genus.

The Eucalyptus is a tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family, like the Feijoa, the Callistemon, or the Myrtle, with characteristic flowerings of this family. The Eucalyptus genus, native to Australia, except for a few rare species from Southeast Asia, comprises more than 800 species, among which are the tallest broadleaves in the world (E. regnans), as well as medium-sized shrubs. The Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. pauciflora Mount Buffalo grows naturally in a very restricted geographical area, around Mount Buffalo, which peaks at an altitude of 1723 m (5652 ft 11 in), in the Australian state of Victoria. This mountain Eucalyptus is subject to a contrasting climate, with mild to hot summers and cold winters, without a distinct dry season.
This relatively slow-growing species eventually forms a small tree, or a mallee, an Aboriginal term for a bushy shrub that measures less than 10 m (32 ft 10 in). The tree form can reach up to 12 m (39 ft 5 in) in height, rarely 15 m (49 ft 2 in), while in our latitudes, it will measure between 6 and 10 m (19 ft 8 in and 32 ft 10 in), with a comparable spread. The trunk is adorned with highly ornamental smooth bark, showing a mix of grey, white, and cream tones, quite similar to that of common plane trees. This Eucalyptus has significant regenerative capacity thanks to its lignotuber. This is an underground swelling rich in starch, capable of producing numerous shoots if the aboveground part of the plant is destroyed (typically by fire). The regrowth is denser than the original plant after this coppicing. This characteristic, possessed by many Eucalyptus species, is particularly interesting from an ornamental point of view, as it allows for severe pruning, which limits the plant's development, promotes branching, and finally stimulates the formation of juvenile foliage, which in many species is more decorative than adult foliage. This is the case with Buffalo, where it takes an ovoid shape, the leave is swollen at the base tapering to a point and taking on a beautiful bluish colour. The leaves measure from 5.5 to 9 cm (2.2 to 3.5 in) long and from 3 to 5.5 cm (1.2 to 2.2 in) wide, with short petioles. The adult foliage is variable, with alternate and petiolate lanceolate leaves, either wide or narrow, or sickle-shaped. Green to bluish-green in colour, they contain essential oils that are released when crushed.
The flowering takes on the usual appearance of small white pompons, formed by umbels comprising 9 to 15 petal-less flowers, it is the stamens in clusters that are admired. The flowering takes place between October and February, and it develops into small cup-shaped or cylindrical fruits, without ornamental interest.
This species demonstrates great adaptability, both in terms of soil and climatic conditions. It grows equally well in neutral to acidic soils and also tolerates limestone. It also shows tolerance to heat and even drought, all qualities that allow it to acclimate in most regions.

Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. pauciflora 'Buffalo' is one of the most interesting species, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -15°C (5 °F) and beyond, provided it is planted in well-drained soil. This highly decorative large shrub or small tree will bring a touch of exoticism to gardens in cool regions. To create a delightfully exotic scene, plant Asimina triloba Allegheny alongside it, a hardy small tree that produces mango-like fruits in both shape and taste, with hints of banana flavour. Also consider Persimmon, such as the Diospyros kaki Tipo, a small tree with dark green glossy foliage evocative of distant lands, which will give you delicious orange fruits. To complete your flower bed, plant some clumps of ginger lilies at the base of your trees, such as the Hedychium coccineum Tara, with its tropical appearance, long shiny green leaves, and spikes of yellow-orange flowers.