Eucalyptus coccifera aka Tasmanian Snow Gum

Eucalyptus coccifera is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Its common names include Tasmania snow gum and Mount Wellington peppermint. It comes from central and south-central Tasmania, in Australia. There it grows in mountain habitats up to 3,937 feet [1,200 metres]. This places its native range within a temperate climate. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The tree has a bushy form and keeps its leaves year-round. In gardens, it can exceed 39 feet [12 metres] tall. Its spread reaches about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. The RHS gives a maturity period of 20–50 years. White and grey patches mark the bark. Young leaves have a heart shape, while adult leaves are lance-shaped. The adult foliage has a blue-green shade. Both leaf forms carry a peppermint scent. Cream-white flowers appear during summer.

Grow this tree in full sun, with shelter while young. The RHS recommends slightly acid soil, though it also lists neutral soil. It accepts clay, loam, sand and chalk soils. Moist ground suits it, and the RHS lists several drainage conditions. These range from well-drained soil to ground with poor drainage. Its UK hardiness rating is H5. This covers winter lows of 5–14°F [−15 to −10°C]. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10. Seeds can be sown in spring or summer at 55–64°F [13–18°C].

Its bark, scented leaves and year-round foliage give it garden interest. The RHS lists coastal gardens, beds and borders as planting settings. Plants For A Future also lists woodland gardens and wildlife value. Pruning can favour a display of the young leaf form. Leaves yield dyes in olive-green and gold shades. The wood also serves as fuel. These uses are separate from food or medicine. Plants For A Future records no known edible or medicinal uses.

Potential pests include eucalyptus gall wasp and eucalyptus sucker. Silver leaf, honey fungus and oedema may also affect it. Plants For A Future does not flag the species as weedy. Its hazard note discusses eucalyptus oils in general, rather than this species alone. That warning does not establish a species-specific toxicity rating. The evidence therefore gives no firm basis for calling this tree safe to eat.