Pruning eucalyptus

Anne Swithinbank’s masterclass on: pruning a gum tree

- Anne Swithinbank

Q A few years ago, we planted a eucalyptus in the garden. This has grown tall, with a 3in (8cm)-diameter trunk. We don’t have the space to let it grow as a big tree, so how should we prune it to enjoy the bark and foliage? Maureen Magnussen, Litchfield, Hampshire

A Eucalyptus or gum trees make fine evergreen specimens with attractive foliage and dramatic bark colours, but some species grow tall and can be unstable in high winds. They also shed long sections of bark mainly in summer and drop leaves year-round as new ones grow. The commonest hardy eucalypt in UK gardens is the cider gum (E. gunnii) which, if left to its own devices, will reach 40ft (12m) in height. Juvenile leaves are rounded and grey-green, but those on mature plants are longer and sickle-shaped.