This text is part of the special Pleasures notebook
Eucalyptus is renowned throughout the world for its versatility, whether for its captivating scent, aesthetic appeal or beneficial properties. Its popularity is currently experiencing an undeniable rise, probably due to its natural association with well-being. It can be found in bouquets of fresh flowers, where it forms delicate wreaths, or hung in the shower to create a spa-like ambiance, and even as an essential oil. Let’s discover this soothing plant.
Cultivate it? Yes it’s possible !
How to successfully grow eucalyptus? Initially, I recommend that you favor plants that are firmly rooted and already grown, sold in a nursery or garden center in the spring. Most varieties are available this time of year. Of course, you always have the option of preparing your own seedlings as early as February.
Being a tropical plant, eucalyptus requires abundant exposure to sun and humidity, which makes it ideal for our Quebec summers. However, things get complicated in the winter when you move it indoors. In this case, choose a sunny location with sufficient direct light. Be sure to let the soil dry out slightly between each watering.
It is entirely possible to keep eucalyptus inside your home. It adapts quite easily to this environment and could even reach an impressive size if it likes it! Keep in mind that eucalyptus requires a lot of space to grow. Make sure the pot is spacious enough to provide it with the conditions it needs to fully flourish.
My favorite
Personally, I prefer to use it in a bouquet, alone. My choice often falls on ‘Baby Blue’, whose delicious scent lasts for several weeks. To prolong its conservation, I simply let it dry afterwards. To my delight, many local producers, including flower farms, now offer them. The eucalyptus harvest extends from the beginning of September to mid-October, depending on temperature variations. Furthermore, several florists sell them all year round.
Ideal varieties for bouquets
• Florists’ Eucalyptus ‘True Blue’: having wider leaves, this variety is ideal for creating impressive bouquets.
• Eucalyptus populus : this berry variety is very popular in wedding floral arrangements.
• Silver eucalyptus ‘Baby Blue’: undoubtedly the variety of choice for hanging bouquets in the shower, which transform the bathroom into a real spa.
For the pots
• Gunn Eucalyptus ‘Silver Drop’: this variety, also very fragrant, is distinguished by larger foliage. It grows very quickly.
• Silver eucalyptus ‘Baby Blue’: this particularly fragrant variety is one of the most popular.
• Lemon eucalyptus: this variety with its lemony essence repels mosquitoes and looks splendid in arrangements decorating terraces and balconies. It is ideal placed near the outdoor table. Also perfect for making bouquets.
Essential oils
Eucalyptus occupies a special place in the world of essential oils for its recognized fragrance which plunges us into a state of absolute relaxation! It is essential to note that it is imperative to dilute essential oils in a vegetable oil before any application to the skin. Generally, half a teaspoon of vegetable oil and a few drops of essential oil are more than enough. In addition, careful use of essential oils is essential, especially if you suffer from specific health problems. Although natural, these substances are extremely powerful. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult your pharmacist or doctor.
• Lemon eucalyptus: a must-have for summer! Thanks to its richness in citronellal and citronellol, this oil is an excellent insect repellent. In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal choice for relieving itching following a sting.
• Globular eucalyptus: recognized for its power for the respiratory tract, it should not be used on young children, nor on people who suffer from severe asthma or on pregnant women. Hence the importance of informing yourself or consulting a health professional before using it.
• Radiated eucalyptus: considered the most complete of all, this essential oil is expectorant, anti-inflammatory and repels insects. It proves practical, summer and winter, and offers a softer solution than that of “globular” eucalyptus, while maintaining undeniable effectiveness. In addition to diffusion, it can also be used in inhalation.
This content was produced by the Special Publications team at Duty, relating to marketing. The writing of the Duty did not take part.