Flower Library
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus · Myrtaceae
Eucalyptus is modern floristry's most important greenery. Silver-green leaves, mild-herbal scent, long-lasting. Since around 2015 it has replaced baby's breath as the standard companion.
- Season
- Year-round
- Vase life
- 10–21 days
- Latin name
- Eucalyptus
- Colors
- Silver-green, Blue-green, Bronze
Main varieties: Cinerea (round-leaved, classic), Parvifolia (small-leaved, fine), Populus (heart-shaped, modern), Baby Blue (silver-blue, small).
Low-maintenance and long-lasting — often outlasts main flowers. Eucalyptus from a 1-week bouquet can be reused for a second composition.
Dries excellently: keeps colour and form for months. Standard in Advent wreaths and dried bouquets.
Is Eucalyptus toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Toxic
- Cats
- Toxic
- Dogs
- Toxic
Toxic to cats and dogs: the essential oils (eucalyptol) irritate the stomach and gut when nibbled and can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and weakness. Place out of reach of nibbling pets.
Typical symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and weakness; larger amounts can also cause muscle tremors and lethargy.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Crosscut or roughen woody stem (like hydrangeas).
- 02Water medium-deep, change every 3–5 days.
- 03Location flexible.
- 04Dry upside down in dark place — 2 weeks suffice.
Frequently asked
- Does eucalyptus smell too strong for bedrooms?
- Fine for most — eucalyptus smells mild-fresh. In very small rooms with allergy-prone people, take care.
- Is eucalyptus toxic?
- Mildly toxic for dogs and cats if ingested — gastrointestinal irritation. Place accordingly.
- How long does eucalyptus last in the vase?
- Fresh for 10 to 21 days — it outlasts nearly every main flower. Left standing afterwards it dries on its own and keeps for months as dried greenery.