This time we will discuss a group of western plants that are not widely cultivated in local gardens but have great potential as subjects to include into our domestic landscapes.

There are a number of western eucalypts that are worthy of our attention. They have interesting bark, attractive foliage, colourful flowers and attractive fruits. The species to be discussed are small enough to be accommodated in the average suburban backyard. They could be grown in garden beds or as eye-catching “stand alone” specimens.

These eucalypts will usually mature and flower within three years, or sometimes sooner, after planting.

Eucalyptus crucis, Southern Cross Silver Mallee is a tall shrub or small tree reaching a height of seven metres. The bark is yellowish-green. The rounded leaves are blue-green to greyish. Buds are held in dense clusters. In late spring they open to reveal yellow flowers.

This is a striking small tree whose foliage provides a contrast with the large flower clusters.

Eucalyptus macrandra, the Long-flowered Marlock is about eight metres tall. The bark is smooth and coppery-orange to cream. Lance-shaped leaves are shiny green. Buds are held in groups of from 7 to 31. They are long and finger-shaped. Flowers are yellow to yellow-green and make a floral statement in summer.

This is a very decorative small tree. Buds and flowers are eye-catching features.

Eucalyptus kruseana, the Book-leaved Mallee is a multi-branched shrub reaching a height of three metres with a spread of one metre. The bark is smooth, coppery and shed in thin strips. The leaves are arranged in closely packed pairs and are waxy-white. The closely packed leaves resemble the leaves of a book, hence the common name. Rounded buds are in groups of seven. In autumn and winter they are followed by yellow-green flowers that cluster around the stems.

The Book-leaved Mallee is a beautiful shrub whose leaf arrangement, colour and flowers are all striking features. This eucalypt would be an ideal candidate as a specimen shrub in the centre of a lawn.

Eucalyptus rhodantha, Rose Mallee is a tall shrub that will reach a height of four metres. Bark is smooth, grey to tan and shred in long strips. Leaves are oval to heart-shaped and grey. Buds are large with beaked caps. Flowers are also large and red with yellow anthers. They make their presence felt from autumn to spring.

The foliage and magnificent blooms are features of the Rose Mallee.

This is another species that could be grown as a specimen shrub in a lawn.

These are just a few of the many western eucalypts that would be worth growing in local gardens.