Nilgiri tree: How to grow and care for it?

The Nilgiri tree is a medium-sized to large-sized, rapidly growing tree that can grow up to 2 metres in diameter and between 25 and 50 metres in height. This tree, with the botanical name, Eucalyptus globulus, is a member of the “Myrtaceae” family, which includes 325 different species in total. 

In essence, the Nilgiri tree was introduced by the British in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu in 1843 for use as fuel and lumber. The leaves or oil of the Nilgiri tree are widely known for their therapeutic benefits and are also utilised in herbal goods.

Nilgiri tree: Quick facts

See also: Orchid tree: How to grow and care for it?

Nilgiri tree: Physical description

The blue gum tree, as it is sometimes called, is so named because it secretes a sticky material that resembles gum. The tree is exceptionally pest-resistant thanks to the antibacterial qualities of this gum, which also inhibits the growth of other non-eucalyptus plants. This gum is also very aromatic. 

The tree has extensive patches of bluish-white bark underneath its smooth, brown outer bark, giving it a piebald look. The smooth, round, thick, grey-green leaves develop into a pointed elliptic shape over time. The fall-flowering yellow flowers that the tree produces lack petals and instead take on a feathery starburst appearance with the many stamens that emerge from the calyx. A lot of black seeds are generated from winter to fall, and they can be dispersed up to 20 metres by a moderate breeze. From as few as 170 trees per acre to as many as 1200, the trees grow in dense groupings.

See also: Cinchona tree: Tips to grow and maintain

Nilgiri tree: How to grow?

How to plant a Nilgiri tree?

• Since the majority of these plants can grow up to 18 m tall or more, it is crucial to consider their distance from buildings and structures when planting the Nilgiri tree. To prevent harm and restricted development, it’s crucial to avoid planting it too close to such structures. Additionally, because it is prone to frosts, pick a location that will shield it from strong winds and chilly temperatures.

• Nilgiri also thrives as a perennial in a pot for indoor use. The pot or container needs to be large enough to hold the plant and allow for adequate drainage. If you decide to grow your Nilgiri plant in a container, put it in a sunny spot where it will get plenty of full sunlight.

• Mid to late spring or fall are the ideal times to plant Nilgiri. To remove air pockets, tamp the dirt after you’ve placed it in a hole large enough to accommodate its root ball. Both before and after planting, water the plant.

Nilgiri tree: Watering requirements

The Nilgiri tree prefers moisture and needs plenty of water to survive. Irrigation is crucial for plant growth in its early stages; even mature plants require frequent watering. Deeply water your Nilgiri, then wait until the top third of the soil has dried up before watering it again. Using a watering metre is one method for determining the moisture content of soil at particular depths. Early in the morning or late at night are the ideal times to water your Nilgiri.

See also: Cinchona trees

Nilgiri tree: Care tips

Nilgiri tree: Sunlight requirements

Nilgiri trees require ample light, so it’s important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day if planted outdoors. For indoor growth, ensure that the plant is placed close to a bright window, ideally facing south.

Nilgiri tree: Soil requirements

Nilgiri trees can grow well in various types of soil, but they require good drainage. To ensure proper drainage, use a well-draining potting mix for container plants. It’s best to maintain a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH level for optimal growth

Nilgiri tree: Temperature and humidity requirements

Nilgiri trees thrive in warm temperatures of around 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit and moderate humidity. They cannot withstand prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is advisable to bring container plants indoors during chilly temperatures.

Nilgiri tree: Fertiliser requirements

In contrast to those grown in pots, Tasmanian blue gums grown in the ground require little to no feeding, if any at all. In the spring, apply water-soluble fertilisers or slow-release granular fertilisers like 10-30-10 or 10-10-10.

Nilgiri tree: Pruning requirements

Young plants benefit from trimming since, if left unchecked, they can get quite big. A multi-stemmed shrub is created by coppicing or cutting the tree back to the ground every year or every other year. You might also give pollarding a shot, which involves cutting off the tree’s top and branches. As soon as the plant reaches a specific height, this limits its ability to grow. No of the technique, pruning must be done in the late winter or early spring, before the plant’s active growth season.

Nilgiri trees: Pests and diseases

Nilgiri trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, eucalyptus long-horned borers may infest stressed trees. Symptoms include holes in the bark, oozing sap, and discoloration of foliage. It is best to remove the affected part of the plant immediately since insecticides are not effective against borers.

Nilgiri tree: Benefits

Source: Pinterest

1. Tea made from blue gum leaves is used for health purposes.
2. As food additives, leaves are used.
3. Crushed leaves are applied to affected areas as an antibacterial and deodorant.
4. Tea is made from leaf decoction for fevers, asthma, hoarseness, and coughing.
5. Asthma, catarrh, bronchitis, whooping cough, coryza, dysentery, diabetes, fevers and colds, malaria, rhinitis, and tuberculosis are all treated using leaf infusions.
6. Inhaling leaf decoction vapour helps treat sinusitis.
7. To cleanse and clean wounds, use a leaf decoction.

FAQs