How to Grow Eucalyptus Indoors: Fragrant Houseplant Care

Overview

Outdoors, this deciduous tree reaches 75–150 feet. Indoors, it can be trained as a decorative, air-freshening houseplant with blue-green leaves and menthol scent. Essential oils from leaves serve as antiseptic for wounds/burns and flavor cough syrups, soaps, cosmetics.

Step 1: Pot Up

10–15 gallon container or half whiskey barrel, half-filled with potting soil. Water well. Plant tree with root ball top 1 inch below rim. Backfill, firm, water thoroughly.

Step 2: Light Requirements

Bright light daily. South-facing window ideal. No shade tolerance. Can move to sunny patio by day, return at night.

Step 3: Watering

Daily soak—no standing water. Never let soil dry completely (causes rapid wilting).

Step 4: Pruning for Size

Cut back main top branch to control height. Indoor eucalyptus may not flower.

Step 5: Fertilizing

Monthly slow-release, low-phosphorus formula (eucalyptus dislikes phosphorus).