Eucalyptus kruseana (Bookleaf Mallee)

Slow-growing, Eucalyptus kruseana (Bookleaf Mallee) is an attractive small evergreen tree or multi branched shrub of rounded habit. It is noted for its unusual and ravishing foliage of rounded silvery-blue leaves closely stacked in pairs along the stems. The closely packed foliage has given rise to the common name. In spring, abundant clusters of creamy-yellow flowers surround the branches like floral bracelets. They open from waxy-white buds with cone-shaped caps and are followed by round to cup-shaped fruits. The bark is smooth on the limbs, bronze to coppery, and sheds in thin ribbons. Native to Western Australia, Bookleaf Mallee occurs naturally on rocky hills in an arid environment. Popular in cultivation, Bookleaf Mallee is prized as a garden or container specimen for its attractive bark, handsome foliage, buds, flowers and fruit. Heat and drought tolerant, it is a good choice for the dry or water-wise garden. Excellent for flower arrangements.

Eucalyptus belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which includes popular shrubs and trees such as Feijoa (Acca sellowiana), Myrtle (Myrtus communis), and bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.).

• Grows up to 6-12 ft. tall and wide (180-360 cm). Usually grows 12 in. or more per year (30 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in well-drained soils. Drought tolerant, this eucalyptus requires occasional to infrequent irrigation. Thrives in most soil types, including coastal sands, but it is essential that the site is free-draining and sunny.
• Prune at an early age to establish the desired shape.
• Keep an eye out for caterpillars, armillaria. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by seed.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to Western Australia.