Backhousia Citriodora “Lemon Myrtle” C3

Backhousia citriodora “Lemon Myrtle” C3

Plant Fact File:

• Plant Type: Evergreen Tree/Shrub
• Botanical Name: Backhousia citriodora
• Common Name: Lemon Myrtle
• Container Size: C3 (3 Litre Container)
• Mature Height: 3-8 m (10-26 feet)
• Mature Spread: 3-5 m (10-16 feet)
• Flower Color: Creamy white
• Flower Form: Small, fluffy clusters
• Scent: Strong lemon fragrance
• Flowering Period: Summer to early autumn
• Foliage: Glossy, lance-shaped leaves with a strong lemon scent
• Hardiness: Frost tender (USDA zones 9-11)
• Aspect: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Well-draining soil, moderately fertile
• Uses: Culinary, medicinal, ornamental, hedges, screens, containers

Description:

Backhousia citriodora, commonly known as Lemon Myrtle, is an evergreen tree or shrub that is highly valued for its aromatic leaves and ornamental appeal. The leaves are glossy and lance-shaped, releasing a strong lemon fragrance when crushed. This plant produces small, creamy white, fluffy flower clusters from summer to early autumn, adding a decorative touch to its aromatic foliage.

With a mature height of 3-8 meters (10-26 feet) and a spread of 3-5 meters (10-16 feet), Lemon Myrtle can be used in various garden settings, including as an ornamental tree, hedge, or screen. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil. Although it is frost tender and best suited for USDA zones 9-11, it can be grown in containers in cooler regions and brought indoors during the winter.

Key Features:

• Aromatic Leaves: Glossy, lance-shaped leaves with a strong lemon scent, highly valued for culinary and medicinal uses.
• Attractive Flowers: Produces small, creamy white, fluffy flower clusters from summer to early autumn.
• Moderate to Large Size: Mature height of 3-8 meters (10-26 feet) and spread of 3-5 meters (10-16 feet), suitable for various garden settings.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
• Frost Tender: Best suited for USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown in containers in cooler climates.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for culinary and medicinal purposes, as well as ornamental uses, hedges, screens, and containers.