| Botanic name | Eucalyptus caesia subsp. magna |
| Other names | Silver Princess |
| Main Origin | Western Australia |
| Mature size | 3 – 4 m x 6 – 8 m (w x h) |
| Mature form | Straight or twisted trunk with open canopy |
| Foliage | Spear- or lance-shaped, bluish or silvery green |
| Growth rate | Moderate to Fast |
| Position | Full sun |
| Soil | Prefers sandy or gravelly soils, but adapts to other soils |
| Water | Minimal, deep watering during extended dry periods |
| Climate | Semi-arid, Mediterranean, temperate, mild subtropical |
| Flower | Large, pink to red flowers from winter to spring |
| Use | Feature specimen |
| Notes | Large decorative gum nuts |
IN THIS ARTICLE
Overview
Silver Princess (Eucalyptus caesia subsp. magna) is one of Australia’s most enchanting native trees. Its graceful weeping branches, stunning flowers, and captivating bluish or silvery foliage have earned it a well-deserved reputation as a showstopper in gardens and landscapes.
The plant has evolved to thrive in the challenging, dry conditions of inland Western Australia. It is naturally equipped to handle drought, poor soils, and high temperatures.
The rugged resilience and striking ornamental features allow Silver Princess to flourish with minimal input, bringing beauty and character to tough growing environments.
Habitat
Originating from scattered inland regions of southwestern Western Australia, this mallee species is found in dry shrubby and mallee woodland, often growing in crevices at the base of large granite rocks.
Silver Princess thrives in hot, dry summers and cool winters, with low humidity, annual rainfall and nutrient-poor soils in its natural range. The rugged habitat has shaped the species into a remarkably resilient and adaptable tree.
In cultivation, this adaptability makes Silver Princess flourish in different climates, ranging from dry semi-arid and Mediterranean to temperate and subtropical zones.
Growth and care
Eucalyptus caesia prefers conditions that mimic its natural habitat. While it can adapt to cooler temperate or warmer subtropical conditions, it does not perform well in extremely cold or humid conditions.
Full sun is essential for healthy growth and abundant flowering. A sunny, open, and airy space is ideal, as the species is prone to fungal disease with excess moisture.
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy, stony, or gravelly soils. However, it is highly adaptable to various soil types so long as the drainage is adequate. If planting in highly compacted soil, amend it with coarse sand, gypsum, or compost.
Silver Princess grows on slightly acidic to neutral soils, although it can tolerate alkaline soils. The plant can be found in coastal regions, suggesting it can tolerate some salinity, but it is not a frontline coastal species and cannot sustain full coastal exposure.
This species tolerates light frost and can withstand cold temperatures to -7°C. Young plants require regular deep watering during their first summer. Once established, this mallee is highly drought-tolerant.
With a slim stem and heavy top branches, younger Silver Princess often requires staking, especially in windy areas. Strong staking encourages a more balanced tree form while allowing stable root expansion. Without it, the plant tends to develop a lean.
The Silver Princess is low maintenance and can grow happily without additional nutrients. However, a light application of slow-release fertiliser can encourage foliage development and prolific flowering, especially if your soil is nutrient-poor.
When planting, mulch around the plant’s base to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Keep the mulch away from the stem to prevent fungal issues.
Branches can be easily managed by pruning as they expand. While the tree is young, prune sparingly to keep its natural form. Excessive pruning can disrupt its ornamental appeal.
Focus on removing overcrowded or crossing branches. If the tree has grown too wide, trim back overextended branches. Cut back lower branches if older gum nuts cause excessive bending. Prune after flowering to minimise stress and encourage healthy regrowth.
Planting tips
- Choose a location with ample sunlight and enough space to accommodate the tree’s branch expansion
- Dig a hole twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root ball.
- Incorporate compost or other organic matter if the soil is nutrient-poor.
- Amend your soil with coarse grit, gypsum, or compost to improve drainage if planting in heavy or compacted soil.
- Backfill gently. Firm the soil around the base. Lay mulch around the plant and water thoroughly.
Features
Silver Princess has a captivating sculptural form that sets it apart in any landscape. As one of the smaller eucalypts, it typically reaches around 6 – 8 metres in height, but can occasionally reach 15 metres in optimal conditions.
The elegant, pendulous branches are one of its most enchanting features, gracefully arching outward to create a weeping silhouette that catches the eye. Coated with gleaming white powder, these branches shimmer in the sunlight, adding an ethereal quality to the tree’s overall appearance.
The main stem of the juvenile Silver Princess is smooth and reddish brown. As the tree matures, it develops ‘minnirichi’ bark (a distinctive type that peels and curls back in fine, reddish-brown ribbons), adding to its textural appeal.
The foliage of younger Silver Princess often appears broader and greener with a spear shape. As the tree matures, the leaves become more lance-shaped with a bluish or silvery green colour.
One of the tree’s highlights is the spectacular flowers. Each flower is pink to crimson red, crowned with long, protruding yellow stamens that give it a fluffy, delicate, starburst-like appearance.
Blooming in late autumn to early spring, these flowers create a visual spectacle and provide a valuable food source for birds, bees, and other pollinators.
Large and woody gum nuts form after flowers. They are adorned by a prominent rim and retain the tree’s unique white-powdered coat. These gum nuts stay on the tree for several months, adding year-round interest. The distinctive bell shape makes them a favourite in native-inspired floral arrangements.
Landscaping uses
Specimen tree in small gardens
With its striking appearance, Eucalyptus caesia subsp. magna makes an excellent focal sculpture in any garden. Its twisted trunk, white arched branches, and vibrant weeping foliage ensure it stands out, whether planted as a specimen tree or grouped for a dramatic effect.
Silver Princess can be grown in large containers or raised garden beds. This adaptability allows urban gardeners to enjoy the beauty of an eucalyptus tree without requiring a large yard.
Public spaces and streetscapes
Eucalyptus caesia subsp. magna is prized for its manageable size, low water requirements, and ornamental appeal in urban design. It is often planted in public spaces such as parks, schoolyards, and streets.
Slopes and rocky sites
Its natural affinity for granite outcrops makes Silver Princess a great choice for sloped or rocky areas. Its root system stabilises soil while its aesthetic qualities enhance challenging landscapes.
Final words
Silver Princess is truly a distinguished eucalypt due to its aesthetic appeal. Its ability to thrive in various environmental conditions with minimal care and maintenance offers tremendous value for landscaping.
With many aesthetic attributes, Silver Princess is a popular tree among gardeners, landscapers, and urban planners. Whether you seek to add a touch of elegance or create a standout feature, this tree brings unparalleled beauty to your garden.
Start your journey with the Silver Princess today and let its magical charm transform your garden.
FAQs
Is Silver Princess fast-growing?
Silver Princess is considered a fast-growing species, especially during its early years. It grows best under the right conditions: full sun, well-drained soils, and low humidity. The growth rate slows as it matures.
How fast do Silver Princess trees grow?
Silver Princess can grow more than 1 metre per year in the right conditions, and can often reach its full height in 10 – 15 years.
How big do Silver Princess gums get?
Silver Princess typically grows 6 – 8 metres tall, with a width of 3 – 4 metres, in cultivation. However, it can reach 10 – 15 metres, with a width of over 6 – 8 metres, when grown in a large open space under optimal conditions.
What are the spots on Silver Princess leaves?
Fungal pathogens can cause brown spots on Silver Princess leaves. High humidity and poor air circulation can contribute to fungal issues.
Avoid over-watering and enhance air circulation in the planting area. The problem often subsides as the weather becomes hotter and drier.
What kind of soil does Silver Princess like?
Silver Princess thrives in well-drained soils and is naturally adapted to sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils that mimic its native habitat. However, it can adapt to various soils, including heavy clay, so long as they have adequate drainage.
Amend heavy soils with coarse grit, fine gravel, gypsum, or compost to improve structure and drainage. Enrich poor soils with organic matter to promote healthy growth.
