Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct
Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle - Evergreen Trees Direct

Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle

Size

100L: Approximately 2 - 2.5m tall

40cm/45L: Approximately 1.5 - 2m tall

Please note: These height guides are approximate, as we work with live plants and natural variation is expected. The measurements provided reflect typical stock sizing but may vary between batches.

Regular price
$365.00
Sale price
$365.00
Regular price
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
A GRADE STOCK, EVERY TIME.

Learn About Your New Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle

Backhousia citriodora, commonly known as Lemon Myrtle, is a fragrant Australian native and one of our top recommendations for an evergreen feature tree. It produces fluffy white to creamy yellow flowers and has a strong, fresh lemon scent, commonly used in candles.

Lemon Myrtle forms a dense, upright habit ideal for use as a feature tree, screen, or informal hedge. Suited to full sun or part shade, it performs well with regular watering and responds to pruning—whether shaped into a small tree or kept compact in a pot. It is low maintenance, pest resistant, and attracts birds and bees, making it suitable for both urban gardens and larger landscapes.

This versatile tree also has culinary value, with leaves that can flavour teas, desserts, and savoury dishes. Once established, it is tolerant of mild frost and moderate drought. With evergreen foliage, seasonal flowers, and a standout fragrance, Lemon Myrtle combines beauty, resilience, and function in any garden setting.

Plant Profile
Planting & Spacing Tips
Post Planting Care
Tips for Various Soil Types

1. Botanical & Physical Characteristics

BOTANICAL NAME:
Backhousia citriodora
GENUS:
Backhousia
BOTANICAL SPECIES:
Backhousia citriodora
COMMON NAME:
Lemon Myrtle
FAMILY:
Myrtaceae
EVERGREEN / DECIDUOUS:
Evergreen (foliage year round)
FOLIAGE TYPE
  • Glossy
FORM & SHAPE
  • Rounded
  • Broad
  • Columnar

2. Growth & Environmental Conditions

GROWTH RATE
  • Medium Growth Rate
EXPECTED GROWTH PER YEAR

Approx. 40 – 60 cm per year

MATURE HEIGHT

5m - 8m Approximately

MATURE WIDTH

5m – 7m

SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE
  • Full Sun
FROST TOLERANCE

Frost Sensitive – May suffer damage from frost, best in frost-free or protected spots.

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE?
Yes

3. Practical Uses & Flowering

USES:
  • Feature Tree
  • Screening or Privacy
  • Shade Tree
  • Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots
  • Rural Property Planting
FLOWER COLOUR
Yellow
FLOWER TYPE
  • Clustered
FLOWERING PERIOD
  • Spring
  • Summer

Planting Tips

Plant Spacing

Hedging & Screening: 1 m – 1.5 m – Forms dense, fragrant screens

Feature Tree: 2 m – 3 m – Allows for full crown development and flowering

Avenue Planting Trees: 3 m – 4 m – Good for structured rows in warm climates

Ensuring A Strong Start

How to Plant Backhousia citriodora

  1. Location Selection: Opt for a location with good sunlight and well-draining soil.
  2. Soil Preparation: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil; enrich with organic matter if needed.
  3. Digging: Prepare a hole twice the size of the plant's root ball.
  4. Planting: Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and press down firmly.
  5. Initial Watering: Ensure a deep water immediately after planting.

Root Ball Dimensions (Width × Depth) for Planting

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

  • 30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
  • 40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
  • 50cm Pot: 49.5cm (W) × 35.2cm (D)
  • 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
  • 100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
  • 100L Pot: 66cm (W) × 49.5cm (D)
  • 150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
  • 200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
  • 300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
  • 400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
  • 750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
  • 1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
  • 2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

Post Planting Care

When planting a new tree or shrub, proper watering is essential to ensure healthy establishment and long-term growth. Follow these guidelines to give your plant the best start:

  1. Immediately After Planting:
    Water generously right after planting to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets. This helps the roots make good contact with the soil.
  2. First Three Months (Establishment Phase):
    The initial three months are critical for root development. Water deeply twice daily (morning and evening) to encourage strong, deep root growth.
  3. Irrigation Systems:
    If using an irrigation system, adjust it to provide adequate water during the establishment phase. Ensure the water reaches the root zone without overwatering.
  4. Weather Considerations:
    Adjust watering based on weather conditions. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods and reduce it during cooler, wetter seasons.
  5. Ongoing Care:
    After the establishment phase (3 months), gradually reduce watering frequency but ensure the plant receives consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

Long Term & Ongoing Care

Caring for Backhousia citriodora

  • Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially in dry conditions.
  • Mulching: Apply a generous layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.
  • Pruning: Light pruning after flowering can maintain shape and promote dense growth.

Growing Your Backhousia citriodora - Lemon Myrtle in Various Soil Types

Optimizing Soil for Fragrant and Vibrant Growth

Ideal Drainage: Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.

Well-Draining Soil: Excellent for supporting the aromatic foliage of Lemon Myrtle.

If you have the following soil, here are some tips for you:

  • Sandy Soil: Great for its natural drainage. Enhance with organic matter and controlled-release fertilizer to improve nutrient availability.
  • Clay Soil: Can be heavy; improve with coarse sand and organic compost to enhance drainage and aeration.
  • Loamy Soil: An ideal environment that offers a good balance of nutrients and drainage. Enrich with compost to maintain vitality.
  • Peaty Soil: High organic content; ensure good drainage by mixing in sand and consider raising beds if waterlogging is an issue.
Here is what customers like you frequently ask

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the culinary uses of Lemon Myrtle? The aromatic leaves are used as a lemon flavoring in various dishes, teas, and beverages.
  • Does Lemon Myrtle have therapeutic properties? Yes, it's often used in essential oils for its antibacterial and aromatic properties.
  • Is it frost-tolerant? Lemon Myrtle can tolerate mild frosts but may need protection in colder regions.

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