One of Don's all time favourite trees, the lemon-scented gum announces its presence in a garden or street by the delicious lemon fragrance from the leaves. The perfume is particularly noticeable after rain.

Plant details

Common name: Lemon-scented gum

Botanic name: Eucalyptus citriodora

Description: Fast growing tree, 20-30m (60-90') tall. It has a smooth, straight white trunk, an open crown and lance-shaped, narrow leaves. The leaves have a strong, citronella aroma. The pale green buds open to creamy white flowers in winter.

Best climate: Lemon-scented gum occurs naturally in northern Queensland from Atherton to Maryborough, but it is widely grown in many more temperate areas.

Uses: large gardens citronella production timber production windbreaks koala food tree

Good points: lemon-scented foliage creamy white flowers powdery, smooth bark tolerant of different soil types

Downside:

Large tree with strong root system, so site well away from pipes and buildings.

Care:

Lemon-scented gums like full sun and well-drained soil. Protect from frost when young.

Getting started:

Lemon-scented gum is available from nurseries. It costs around $18 for a 200mm (8") pot.

Copyright CTC Productions 2004