Shade tolerance

It has been pointed out that the Eucalypts and Acacia should be planted in direct sunlight. The importance of this must be re-emphasised. If planted in shade or semi-shade they will tend to grow 'leggy' and not make good specimens. Also heavy side shade from surrounding taller trees or buildings will also tend to force the growth upward. The best specimens are made in direct sunlight. Having said this there are two species hardy enough to grow in the U.K. that occur as an understorey species in their natural environment. These are E. crenulata and E. neglecta. They can therefore be planted in semi-shade and still make good specimens.