How to grow strawberry gum
Overview
Strawberry gum (Eucalyptus olida) is a small to medium shrub native to northern NSW, grown for its intensely aromatic leaves that smell like strawberries. It is a versatile bushfood plant for culinary use and ornamental landscaping. Key requirement: full sun and excellent drainage.
Soil Preparation
Prefers well-drained sandy loam to clay loam with pH 5.5–7.0. Improve heavy clay soils with gypsum and organic matter before planting. Incorporate composted leaf litter or native plant mix to enhance soil structure and nutrition.
Growing Guide
Plant strawberry gum in full sun in well-drained soil, ideally sandy loam to clay loam. Space plants 2–3 m apart. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, backfill with native planting mix, and water in well. Water regularly for the first 6–12 months until established; then reduce to occasional deep watering. Mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Sowing
Sow seeds in spring (Sep–Nov) in seed-raising mix. Seeds are fine – press onto the surface without covering. Keep moist and warm; germination occurs in 10–21 days. Transplant seedlings to individual pots when 10 cm tall, then plant out after 6–12 months.
Care
Feed with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring. Mulch annually with organic material to keep roots cool. Lightly prune after harvest to shape the plant and remove dead wood; avoid heavy pruning as it reduces leaf production.
Companion Planting
Underplant with low-growing natives like native violet (Viola banksii) or creeping boobialla (Myoporum parvifolium) to create a living mulch. Companion shrubs include lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) and aniseed myrtle (Syzygium anisatum) for a bushfood garden. Avoid heavy feeding plants that require high phosphorus.
Common Pests & Risks
Leaf beetles (Paropsis spp.) can chew leaves; manage with eco-oil or neem oil sprays. Psyllids cause leaf curl and distortion; prune affected tips and encourage predatory insects like ladybirds. Borers attack stressed trees; maintain regular watering and avoid trunk damage.
Harvesting
Harvest mature leaves from established trees (2–3 years old) by picking sparingly, taking no more than one-third of the canopy. Best harvested in the morning after dew dries. Leaves can be used fresh or dried; dry in a well-ventilated area and store in airtight containers.
In the Kitchen
Leaves have a strong strawberry aroma and can be used fresh or dried to flavour teas, syrups, desserts, and baked goods. Infuse in sugar, honey, or vinegar for a fragrant twist. Store dried leaves in an airtight container away from light.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage – reduce watering and improve soil drainage. Brown leaf tips: underwatering or salt stress – water deeply and leach salts. Leaf spots: fungal infection – improve air circulation and avoid wet foliage. Stunted growth: phosphorus deficiency – use native fertiliser low in phosphorus. Scale insects: treat with horticultural oil.