- Mature height
- 3m to 6m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 3m to 5m
Eucalyptus pauciflora 'Little Snowman' is a compact selection of the snow gum, grown for its smooth bark in white, grey and cream and its narrow blue green leaves. It forms a rounded, well proportioned canopy on a short trunk, and small white flowers appear over summer above the fine, open crown.
It takes full sun and open, exposed positions, and handles heavy and repeated frost as well as snow. Growth runs about 0.5 to 1 metre a year on free draining soils from sand through to clay. Once established it copes with dry spells, wind and urban pollution with very little attention.
Use it where a full sized gum would be too much, in suburban front gardens, courtyards, avenue and street plantings, council landscapes and rural shelter belts. Space feature trees 3 to 4 metres apart, or 3 metres for an avenue. The compact frame gives you snow gum bark at a manageable scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Little Snowman Snow Gum
What is Eucalyptus pauciflora 'Little Snowman'?
It is a compact form of the snow gum, an Australian native evergreen tree selected for a smaller frame than the species. It carries the same smooth bark in white, grey and cream, narrow blue green leaves that smell of eucalyptus when crushed, and small white summer flowers that feed native bees and other pollinators.
How big does Little Snowman Snow Gum grow?
Expect roughly 6 to 8 metres tall with a canopy 3 to 5 metres wide at maturity, which is well short of a standard snow gum. The canopy is rounded and reasonably even, so it holds its shape in an exposed position without much shaping. Allow the full width when you set it out.
How fast does it grow?
About 0.5 to 1 metre a year in the early seasons, slowing as it approaches full height. Growth is quickest with full sun, free draining soil and regular water through the first two summers. After that it largely looks after itself and reaches a useful size within five or six years.
Is it frost tolerant?
Yes. Snow gums are among the hardiest eucalypts in the country, and this one survives heavy and frequent frost without damage. It also handles snow load and cold wind, which is why it works in the tablelands, the alpine fringe and cold inland districts where most ornamental trees struggle.
Does it need full sun?
Full sun, with an open aspect. It will grow in half a day of direct sun, but the canopy opens up and the bark colour is less pronounced. Avoid planting it under established trees or on the shaded side of a building, and give it room so air moves through the crown.
How far apart should I plant it?
Set feature trees 3 to 4 metres apart so each canopy can fill out. For an avenue, 3 metres apart gives an even, soft textured line. Keep the same distance from fences and paving, and allow a few metres more from buildings and drainage lines so the roots have somewhere to go.
How do I care for Little Snowman Snow Gum?
Water deeply once a week through the first two summers, then only in long dry spells. Mulch out to the drip line, keeping it clear of the trunk. Feed sparingly, if at all, with a native fertiliser low in phosphorus. Prune only to remove damaged wood or lift the crown, in late winter or early spring.