Bush That Looks Like Eucalyptus: Identification and Characteristics
Last updated: February 22, 2026
Some species of bushes have a striking resemblance to eucalyptus trees, both in appearance and in scent. These bushes are often used as ornamental plants in landscapes, adding a touch of the Australian wilderness to gardens all over the world. While they may not be true eucalyptus trees, these bushes provide similar benefits and are much easier to maintain.
One of the most popular bushes that looks like eucalyptus is the silver dollar bush (Eucalyptus cinerea). This bush is prized for its silvery-blue foliage, which is similar to the leaves of a eucalyptus tree. It also produces a pleasant eucalyptus scent, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. The silver dollar bush is relatively easy to grow and can be used as a hedge, accent plant, or container plant.
Identifying Eucalyptus-Like Bushes
If you’re trying to identify a bush that looks like eucalyptus, there are a few key characteristics to look for. These include the shape, size, color, and features of the leaves, bark, flowers, and fruit.
Leaf Characteristics
Eucalyptus bushes typically have glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are a gray-green or silver color. One common variety is the silver dollar eucalyptus (Eucalyptus cinerea), which has round, silvery leaves that resemble coins. Some eucalyptus-like bushes also have aromatic leaves that release a pleasant scent when crushed.
Bark and Stem Features
The bark of eucalyptus bushes can vary depending on the species, but it often has a smooth texture that peels away in thin strips. Some varieties have flaky bark that comes off in larger chunks. The stems of eucalyptus-like bushes are usually woody and sturdy, with a gray or brown color.
Flower and Fruit Distinctions
Eucalyptus bushes produce white, pink, red, or yellow flowers that are typically small and clustered together. The flowers have numerous stamens and a distinctive shape that can help with identification. The fruit of eucalyptus bushes is a woody capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
When trying to identify a bush that looks like eucalyptus, it’s important to consider all of these characteristics and compare them to known eucalyptus varieties. By paying attention to the shape, size, color, and features of the leaves, bark, flowers, and fruit, you can gain a better understanding of the plant and make an accurate identification.
Cultivation and Care
Planting and Soil Preferences
Bushes that look like eucalyptus are fast-growing plants that can be planted in the ground or grown as a houseplant. When planting in the ground, choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Eucalyptus plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 – 6.5. If the soil is alkaline, amend it with organic matter to increase acidity.
Light and Water Requirements
Bushes that look like eucalyptus require full sun to grow best. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. During the summer, they may require more frequent watering to keep the soil moist. However, it is important not to overwater them as they prefer well-drained soil.
Pruning and Maintenance
Bushes that look like eucalyptus can be pruned to control their growth rate and maintain their shape. Pruning should be done in the spring or fall, and it is important to use sterile pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. When pruning, remove any dead or damaged branches and cut back any branches that are growing too long.
In terms of landscape design, bushes that look like eucalyptus can add a touch of greenery to any garden. They are versatile plants that can be grown as a shrub or trained to grow into a tree. They are also low maintenance and require minimal care.
Overall, cultivating and caring for bushes that look like eucalyptus is relatively easy. With the right planting conditions, soil, light, and water requirements, and regular pruning and maintenance, these plants can thrive in a variety of settings.
