Eucalyptus pauciflora aka Jounama Snow Gum

Eucalyptus pauciflora is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Its native range runs from southeast Queensland to southeast Australia. The RHS gives its range as southeast Queensland to Tasmania. It lists ghost gum among the tree’s common names. Other names include white gum, peppermint tree, and white Sally. The older name Eucalyptus coriacea refers to the same species.

The tree forms a broad crown with spreading branches. The RHS describes a height of 49–66 feet [15–20 metres]. Its size guide places it above 39 feet [12 metres]. It also gives a spread exceeding 26 feet [8 metres]. The tree takes about 10–20 years to reach maturity. Its pale bark peels away as the trunk grows. White and light grey layers reveal yellow, bronze, and green patches. New shoots can be yellow or red. These changing colours give the trunk and branches visual interest.

The leaves change in shape and colour as they age. Young leaves have an oval outline and a pink-bronze tint. They later become grey-green. Adult leaves are glossy blue-green and curve like a sickle. They reach about 0.66 feet [0.2 metres] in length. Parallel veins help mark out the mature leaves. White flowers grow in groups of nine to fifteen. They appear during spring and summer. Woody fruits follow the flowers. Their shapes range from small cups to funnels.

Choose a sunny site with shelter from cold, drying winds. The soil should be fertile and hold moisture without staying waterlogged. The RHS lists both loam and sand as suitable soils. It favours neutral to slightly acid ground that does not dry out. South-facing and west-facing sites suit its need for sun. The RHS rates this species H5 for UK hardiness. This rating covers minimum temperatures from −15 to −10°C. Seeds can be sown in spring or summer at 13–18°C.

The RHS suggests this tree for architectural planting and informal gardens. Its bark, spreading crown, and evergreen leaves provide lasting structure. Pruning young trees can favour a display of juvenile leaves. Watch for eucalyptus gall wasp and eucalyptus sucker. Silver leaf and honey fungus may also affect the tree. Oedema is another possible problem listed by the RHS.