Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. niphophila (Alpine Snow Gum)

Exceptionally hardy, Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. niphophila (Alpine Snow Gum) is a small evergreen tree or large shrub of open habit, boasting a fantastic smooth bark flaking in ribbons into cream, gray and green patches. The bark is red on young branches, creating a glorious display.

Exceptionally hardy, Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. niphophila (Alpine Snow Gum) is a small evergreen tree or large shrub of open habit, boasting a fantastic smooth bark flaking in ribbons into cream, gray and green patches. The bark is red on young branches, creating a glorious display. The foliage is blue-gray, ovate when juvenile, glossy, blue-green, elliptical, 2-3 in. long (5-8 cm), when adult. In summer, huge clusters of small white fluffy flowers are borne amongst the foliage. A slower growing Eucalyptus, Alpine Snow Gum makes a splendid ornamental tree for high altitude, costal exposed locations and most gardens, where its striking bark will be the highlight of the garden.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 12-25 ft. tall (4-8 m) and 8-12 ft. wide (2-4 m).
  • Performs best in full sun in neutral to slightly acid, moisture retentive soil. Does not appreciate boggy conditions. Shelter when young as younger trees are less tolerant of frost and may suffer damage in early years at low temperatures. Drought tolerant.
  • Easy to grow, easy to care for. Deer resistant.
  • Watch for eucalyptus sucker, silver leaf and oedema.
  • Propagate by seed.
  • Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
  • Native to South Eastern Australia, Tasmania.

Requirements

Hardiness 7
– 10

Heat Zones 9
– 10

Climate Zones 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Eucalyptus
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 12'
– 25'
(3.6m
– 7.5m)
Spread 8'
– 12'
(240cm
– 3.6m)
Water Needs Low, Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Poorly Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Native Plants Australia
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Salt
Attracts Birds
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden