Description
Backhousia citriodora is an evergreen tree native to subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia, highly prized for its intensely aromatic, lemon-scented foliage. The glossy, lance-shaped leaves contain high concentrations of citral, giving them a strong, clean lemon fragrance widely used in culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic applications. In cultivation, the tree typically reaches 3 to 8 meters in height, forming a dense, attractive canopy suitable for gardens or container growth when young.
During the flowering season, the plant produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that are rich in nectar and attractive to pollinators. Its ornamental value, combined with its practical uses, makes it a popular choice for both edible and decorative landscapes.
Backhousia citriodora thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. It performs best in warm, frost-free or lightly frosted climates and benefits from protection against strong winds. Regular pruning can help maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Germination Guide
🌍 Subtropical rainforests of central and south-eastern Queensland, Australia (Mackay to Brisbane)
Difficult
Backhousia citriodora, commonly known as Lemon Myrtle, is an evergreen Australian native shrub or small tree endemic to subtropical Queensland rainforests, prized for its intensely fragrant lemon-scented leaves and culinary and medicinal applications. Seed germination is challenging and variable, with fresh seeds requiring warm, moist conditions and careful pre-treatment to achieve germination rates of 20-60%, making cutting propagation preferred for commercial cultivation.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
14 – 56 days
Temperature
Min 17°C
Ideal 22°C
Max 25°C
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Sowing depth
Lightly covered
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 12 hours
Soak seed capsules in lukewarm water for 12-24 hours prior to sowing
-
🔥
Smoke/Fire treatment
Smoke treatments can aid in low germination rates; smoked vermiculite can be mixed through soil
-
📋
Additional notes
Soak seed capsules in lukewarm water for 12-24 hours. Surface sow seeds on well-draining medium with minimal soil coverage (approximately 2mm)
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
High-quality, sterile seed-raising mix with added perlite, vermiculite, or sand for improved drainage
Recommended container
Pots or seedling trays with drainage holes; place in warm, bright location out of direct sunlight
Growing Tips
Germination is notoriously slow and variable (14-56 days). Use fresh seeds whenever possible as viability declines rapidly. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged by misting regularly. Maintain warmth (22-25°C) and bright conditions without direct sunlight. Smoke treatments improve germination rates; alternatively, mist seedlings weekly. Low seed fill (8-16.5% of capsules) is normal and not indicative of poor viability. After germination, transfer seedlings to individual containers when 5-10cm tall and acclimate gradually over 45-60 days before hardening off. Protect from frost during the first 1-2 years of growth. Expect slow growth; seedlings may take 3-4 years to reach maturity. Consider using semi-hardwood cuttings as an alternative propagation method for more reliable results.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.