Eucalyptus pulverulenta aka Powdered Gum

Eucalyptus pulverulenta is an evergreen tree or large shrub from southeastern New South Wales, Australia. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Its common names include silver-leaved mountain gum and Argyle apple. The RHS also lists the name silver-leaved ironbark tree. It has a bushy form and keeps its leaves year-round.

Garden plants reach about 26–39 feet (8–12 metres) tall. Their spread is about 8–13 feet (2.5–4 metres). The RHS description gives a height of 33 feet (10 metres), within that range. Plants take 20–50 years to reach their full size. The smooth bark ranges from grey to bronze. It peels away in strips, adding interest beyond the foliage. Its size places it among small trees and large shrubs.

The young leaves are round or heart-shaped and blue-green. They reach about two inches in both length and width. Mature plants usually keep this young leaf form. Adult leaves appear only rarely, so leaf shape need not change with age. When present, adult leaves are oval or lance-shaped. Their colour is a dull grey-blue, and they reach about four inches long. The cream flowers have a fluffy look and grow in groups of three. The supplied profile gives no flowering season or fruit details.

Grow this species in full sun, with shelter from cold, drying winds. The RHS lists east-, west-, and south-facing sites as suitable. Give it fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. Its growing guidance favours neutral to slightly acid soil. The profile lists chalk, clay, loam, and sand among suitable soil types. Avoid letting the soil dry out. The RHS rates it H5 for UK conditions. This rating covers minimum temperatures of about 5–14°F (−15 to −10°C).

The RHS includes this species among plants for low-maintenance gardens. Its evergreen leaves and peeling bark provide lasting visual interest. Raise new plants from seed in spring or summer. Use temperatures of 55–64°F (13–18°C) for propagation. Possible pests include eucalyptus gall wasp and eucalyptus sucker. Silver leaf, oedema, and honey fungus may also cause problems. The supplied evidence gives no basis for judging food use or toxicity.