How to Grow and Care for Moon Lagoon Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus pulverulenta ‘Moon Lagoon’ is a distinctive small tree or large shrub valued for its foliage. Unlike many eucalyptus, this variety retains its silvery-blue, coin-shaped juvenile foliage throughout its life, providing year-round visual interest. Its compact, multi-stemmed growth habit makes it a manageable choice for various landscapes. The aromatic scent of its leaves is a signature characteristic, released when they are brushed against or crushed, making it a popular landscape specimen and screening plant.

Planting Moon Lagoon Eucalyptus

This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11 and requires a location that receives at least six hours of direct sun daily. For colder climates, it can be grown in a large container with plenty of drainage holes and brought indoors for the winter.

The most important factor for planting is providing well-draining soil, as eucalyptus is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal, while heavy clay soils can be amended with coarse sand or perlite. When planting in the ground, space it to accommodate a mature size of up to 15 feet wide to ensure good air circulation.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

After planting, a consistent watering schedule helps the plant establish a deep root system. Water deeply and regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Once established, Moon Lagoon is quite drought-tolerant and will only require supplemental water during prolonged dry spells. Checking the soil is a reliable way to gauge moisture; if the top inch or two is dry, it’s time to water.

This plant has specific, minimal fertilizer needs. Eucalyptus does not require heavy feeding, and it is particularly sensitive to phosphorus, so a low-phosphorus, low-nitrogen fertilizer is the best choice. A single, light application in the spring as new growth begins is sufficient for the year.

Moon Lagoon tolerates heat well and does not have special humidity requirements when grown within its recommended hardiness zones. Young plants may need some protection from frost during their first couple of winters until they are fully established.

Pruning and Harvesting

Pruning is a regular part of maintaining Moon Lagoon, for the health of the plant and for harvesting its stems. Regular trimming encourages a bushier, denser growth habit, controls the overall size, and promotes the continuous production of the prized silvery-blue juvenile foliage.

The best time for significant structural pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before the plant begins its active growth period. For harvesting stems for floral arrangements, light pruning can be done at any time of the year. The woody stems are long-lasting in vases and can be used fresh or dried.

A specific pruning technique called coppicing can be used to maintain a continuous supply of the juvenile foliage. This involves cutting the main stems back hard, to about 12 to 18 inches from the ground, in early spring. This stimulates the plant to send up vigorous new shoots from the base.

Common Problems

The most frequent issue encountered with Moon Lagoon eucalyptus is root rot. This disease is almost always a result of poor soil drainage or excessive watering. The initial signs of trouble often appear as yellowing leaves and wilting, even when the soil is moist. Ensuring the plant is in well-draining soil from the start is the best prevention.

Pests are not a significant problem for this plant, though insects like psyllids, which are sometimes called jumping plant lice, may occasionally appear. Their presence is indicated by the crystallized honeydew the larvae leave behind. For minor infestations on smaller plants, applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be an effective control method.

Observing the leaves can provide clues to the plant’s health. Curling or crispy leaves often mean the plant is too dry, a common issue for newly planted or container-grown specimens during hot weather. Conversely, sudden leaf drop on an established plant can also be a sign of overwatering and the onset of root decay.