Eucalyptus is one of the most popular and versatile greenery options in floral design. With its silvery-green leaves, graceful draping branches, and that unmistakable fresh, aromatic scent, it adds texture, movement, and a natural elegance to any arrangement. It's a staple for weddings, garlands, wreaths, and everyday bouquets alike.

Like all of our products, eucalyptus is not ready to display the moment it arrives. Give it a little time to hydrate and settle after its journey and it will look its best.

What You'll Need

  • A clean vase
  • Fresh, cool water
  • Sharp scissors or floral shears

Step-by-Step Care Instructions

  1. Unpack promptly. Remove your eucalyptus from the packaging as soon as it arrives and let it breathe.
  2. Trim the stems. Cut 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle to improve water uptake.
  3. Remove lower leaves. Strip any leaves that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean and prevent bacterial buildup.
  4. Fill your vase. Use clean, cool water. Eucalyptus does not require floral preservative but benefits from fresh water.
  5. Change the water every 2 days. Re-trim the stems each time to keep them drinking well.
  6. Keep in a cool spot. Eucalyptus lasts longest in a cool environment away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Pro Tips

  • Scent varies by variety: Some eucalyptus varieties have a strong, fresh, herbal aroma while others have very little scent at all. This is completely normal and varies naturally from variety to variety. In large quantities, such as garlands or big installations, the scent can be quite pronounced on the more fragrant varieties.
  • Vase life varies by variety: Different eucalyptus varieties have different lifespans. Some last significantly longer than others, so don't be surprised if one variety outlasts another. In general, eucalyptus is one of the longest-lasting greenery options available.
  • Seeded and cupped varieties will drop some seeds or pods: If you ordered seeded or cupped eucalyptus, expect some seeds or pods to fall off naturally during handling, designing, and arranging. This is completely normal and always happens. Not all of them will drop, but some always will. It's just the nature of these beautiful varieties and doesn't affect how stunning they look in your arrangement.
  • It dries beautifully: Eucalyptus is one of the best greeneries for drying. Simply hang it upside down in a cool, dry spot or leave it in a vase without water and let it dry naturally. It holds its shape, color, and even some of its scent for months.
  • Great for garlands and wreaths: Eucalyptus is incredibly flexible and easy to work with for garlands, arches, and wreaths. Its branches hold up well even out of water for several hours during event setup.

Florist Secret

To condition eucalyptus and help it last as long as possible, after trimming the stems, gently crush or lightly score the bottom inch of each stem with your scissors before placing it in water. This increases the surface area for water absorption and helps the branches stay hydrated and flexible longer. It's especially useful for thicker, woodier eucalyptus varieties!

How Long Will They Last?

With proper care, fresh eucalyptus typically lasts 2 to 3 weeks in a vase, though this varies by variety. And once dried, it can last for months as a beautiful, fragrant accent in your home.