Known for its menthol-like scent and as a filler in cut flower arrangements, eucalyptus plants can also be grown as container plants and showy annuals. These tough trees, hardy in Zones 8-10, have over 700 species available, and most are native to Australia. Although some of these plants can reach over 200 feet tall, they can be used seasonally in many gardens and even as a houseplant.
Eucalyptus is grown for its potent essential oils, commonly derived from the E. globulus. These fragrant oils are used to scent perfumes and fragrances. All parts of the eucalyptus plant produce these oils, but they are most commonly derived through steam distillation of the leaves.
Eucalyptus bark, leaves, and oil are considered highly toxic to both humans1 and most animals.2 In fact, koala bears—who dine almost exclusively on eucalyptus leaves—can only tolerate the leaves because of the unique microbes in their digestive tract that break down the otherwise harmful compounds. Skin contact with the leaves or oil of the plant may cause minor contact dermatitis in some people.