Eucalyptus approximans

Eucalyptus approximans, also known as the Barren Mountain Mallee is a bushy plant, hence its Mallee name, a term that designates in Australia small trees or heavily branched bushes, with several trunks, of a height less than 10 m (32 ft 10 in). Barren Mountain refers to its region of origin. Eucalyptus approximans reaches a mature size of 6 m (19 ft 8 in) high with very narrow, linear, green and shiny foliage. It has smooth, highly ornamental bark, in white, grey, brown or pink colours which peels in ribbons up to the highest branches. It flowers in white pompoms between September and November. Its small size and bushy appearance allow it to be used as an informal plant screen or a potted specimen. It appreciates normal to dry, well-drained soil, in the sun, in a location sheltered from cold winds. It is not very hardy, down to about -5° (23 °F) C, although it is sometimes given as -10° (14 °F) C.

Eucalyptus approximans is a species from the plateaus of northern New South Wales and neighbouring southern Queensland, observed on granite outcrops. Like all Eucalyptus, it belongs to the myrtaceae family. Its growth is quite rapid and it eventually forms a bush measuring about 6 m (19 ft 8 in) in height and 4 m (13 ft 1 in) in width, depending on the growing conditions. Its bark is smooth everywhere, grey mixed with brown, pink and white. The foliage remains juvenile for 4 or 5 years on its branches. The juvenile leaves are narrow, lanceolate to linear and bright green. The adult leaves are also bright green, crescent-shaped or lanceolate. This foliage gives off a typical Eucalyptus fragrance when crushed. Flowering spreads from September to November, depending on the climate and the age. The white flowers are grouped in 3s in the axil of the leaves. This eucalyptus has a lignotuber just below the surface of the soil. This organ allows it to start again from the stump in case of severe frost, fire or pruning to the ground. The plant also produces numerous shoots from dormant buds located under its bark, which allows it to respond well to coppicing and topping. Its limited root system is less dangerous for buildings and competes less with other garden plants.

Eucalyptus approximans easily settles in many gardens, in pots or in the open ground. Depending on the region, it must be overwintered, or its crown must be protected because of its limited hardiness. It works well in scenes dominated by white or silver. It brings an elegant touch in the garden, planted in a hedge with other bushes, in a group or isolated. Some association ideas: with a coyote willow or a Weeping ornamental pear, both beautifully silvery, or purple hazel for contrast. Easy to maintain, it is easy to contain by pruning. Finally, it is ornamental at all stages of its growth.