Silver Box Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus pruinosa), also known as Apple Box or Smoke Tree, is a striking ornamental tree prized for its unique silvery-blue foliage and rugged resilience. Native to northern Australia, it naturally thrives in hot, arid environments where many other plants fail.
Its elegant round leaves are intensely coated with a powdery wax, giving them a shimmering silvery appearance that stands out in modern landscapes, xeriscapes, or large container plantings. In summer, it bears clusters of creamy white to yellow flowers that offer nectar for bees, birds, and other pollinators.
This fast-growing, drought-tolerant species makes an excellent addition to wildlife gardens, dry gardens, and contemporary outdoor spaces thanks to its dramatic form and subtle color palette. A fantastic choice for those looking to establish hardy shade trees or beautiful structural foliage.
Features
- Silvery-blue round foliage with powdery bloom
- Drought-tolerant and resilient tree
- Fast-growing with unique ornamental structure
- Supports native pollinators with nectar-rich flowers
- Excellent for xeriscapes, modern landscapes, or large patios
Specifications
- Seed Type: Silver Box Eucalyptus tree seeds
- Botanical Name: Eucalyptus pruinosa
- Common Names: Apple Box, Smoke Tree
- Plant Type: Perennial Tree
- Plant Height: 15 – 30 feet
- Zones: USDA Zones 9–11 (can be container-grown in colder zones)
- Light Requirement: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soils
- Germination Time: 14 – 30 days
- Days to Maturity: Reaches maturity in 3–5 years
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Season: Spring or early summer planting
- Planting Depth: Sow on surface, lightly cover
- Spacing: 8 – 15 feet apart
- Optimal Temperature: 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C)
- Watering: Light to moderate; drought tolerant once established
- Companion Plants: Suitable with plants like Acacia, Grevillea, or grasses
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Flower Color: Creamy white to pale yellow
- Foliage Color: Silvery blue-green
- Uses: Landscape focal point, shade tree, xeriscaping
- Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location
Planting Guide
- Pre-treatment: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
- Direct Sow or Indoors: Start seeds indoors in late winter or sow outdoors after last frost.
- Soil Prep: Use a free-draining mix; prefer sandy or gritty soil for best results.
- Care: Water regularly during establishment; reduce watering once mature.
- Growing Note: Can be container-grown in cold areas—prune annually to maintain size.
