Eucalyptus Cinerea or Silver Dollar Eucalyptus Tree

Eucalyptus Cinerea, commonly known as the Silver Dollar Eucalyptus (also the Argyle Apple), is a striking evergreen tree prized for its aromatic, silvery juvenile leaves that bring year-round interest. Valued in both landscapes and floral design, its foliage adds a modern, sculptural touch.

This medium-sized eucalyptus features dramatic juvenile leaves—rounded and glaucous blue-green—resembling large coins, which is the source of its common name "Silver Dollar." As the tree matures, leaves become lanceolate and alternate, while the bark develops a fibrous, soft string-bark texture. In its native Australia, it can reach notable size, though in temperate gardens it typically stays smaller. While the foliage is the main attraction, Eucalyptus cinerea also produces small clusters of creamy white flowers, usually appearing in summer. These are followed by woody, urn-shaped seed capsules, though in ornamental plantings the flowers and fruits are generally secondary to the showy silvery leaves.

Height and Width of Eucalyptus Cinerea

In warm climates, it can grow to 25–40 ft (7–12 m) tall with an equal spread; in cooler regions or in plant containers, it's commonly maintained at 6–10 ft (1.8–3 m).

How hardy is Eucalyptus Cinerea?

The Silver Dollar Eucalyptus is hardy,  tolerates drought, coastal conditions, and poor soils once established. However, it can suffer in sustained frost and typically rebounds by resprouting from its lignotuber. 

Uses in Garden and/or Landscape

Perfect as a specimen or screening tree, Silver Dollar's sculptural foliage shines in mixed borders. It’s also highly prized in the florist trade for fresh or dried arrangements. Ideal in containers, it works well in patio settings or smaller gardens when maintained appropriately.

The striking silvery foliage of Eucalyptus cinerea pairs beautifully with plants that provide contrasting colours, textures, or seasonal interest. For year-round structure, consider planting alongside ornamental grasses such as Stipa tenuissima or Miscanthus, which soften the bold eucalyptus leaves with their airy movement. Shrubs like Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) or Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) thrive in similar sunny, well-drained conditions and echo the silvery-grey tones, creating a harmonious Mediterranean-style planting. 

The juvenile foliage of Eucalyptus Cinerea sets it apart from other varieties of Eucalyptus such as Eucalyptus gunnii (Cider Gum), which also has attractive juvenile leaves but tends to transition more quickly into elongated adult foliage, making it better suited as a fast-growing shade or shelter tree rather than primarily a foliage plant. Compared with Eucalyptus glaucescens (Tingiringi Gum), which develops into a much taller tree with narrower blue-grey leaves, Eucalyptus cinerea is typically smaller, easier to maintain, and more widely used in floral arrangements due to the persistence and form of its coin-shaped leaves. All three species are aromatic and adaptable, but Eucalyptus cinerea is generally chosen where striking ornamental foliage and a more compact garden presence are desired.

Care Tips

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil—preferably slightly acidic to neutral. Water regularly until established, then allow to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid root disturbance after planting. Pruning is minimal; light trimming maintains shape, while coppicing is an option for overwintering in harsher climates. Wear gloves when handling, as its oils can irritate skin; the plant is also toxic if ingested by humans or pets.