Backhousia citridora - Lemon Myrtle

The Backhousia citriodora commonly known as Lemon Myrtle, is a distinctive and aromatic Australian Native rainforest tree renowned for its lemon fragrance, remarkable culinary and aromatic qualities whilst being a wonderful ornamental tree for screening or feature planting. 

Native to the subtropical rainforests of central and south-eastern Queensland, Australia, with a natural distribution from Mackay to Brisbane, this premium tree brings authentic rainforest character and sensory delight to Australian gardens.

Growth size: Approx 3-8m h x 3-5m w.  Up to 20m h in a rainforest setting.

Positioning: Full sun to part shade

Temperament: Doesn't handle frost well

Perfect for: Tree, screening, using for food, soaps or cream production.

The Lemon Myrtle is celebrated for its exceptionally strong lemon scent released from the foliage when leaves are crushed or brushed.

This aromatic quality is the tree's standout characteristic and primary appeal.

The tree produces attractive red and copper-toned new growth that transitions to glossy green mature foliage, creating year-round colour interest and visual appeal.

The flowers are creamy-white, produced in clusters at the ends of the branches from summer through to autumn.  These delicate, fluffy creamy-white flowers appear abundantly throughout the warmer months, creating ornamental displays alongside the aromatic foliage. 

Provides food and habitat for wildlife attracting birds, insects and bees. 

Holding their natural form well without the intervention of pruning making these low to no maintenance once establishes. 

The combination of red new growth, creamy flowers, and fragrant foliage creates a multi-sensory garden experience.

Culinary & Aromatic Uses:

Beyond ornamental value, Lemon Myrtle leaves have significant culinary and aromatic applications. The leaves are prized in gourmet cooking for flavouring dishes, beverages, and desserts with authentic lemon essence without citrus bitterness.

Additionally, the aromatic foliage is valuable for aromatherapy, dried arrangements, and creating natural fragrant products.

This dual-purpose quality makes the Lemon Myrtle particularly valuable for culinary gardeners and those seeking aromatic plants.

Rainforest Heritage & Character:

The Lemon Myrtle carries authentic rainforest heritage and brings genuine subtropical Australian character to gardens.

Growing this tree connects you to Queensland's natural rainforest ecosystems and celebrates native Australian botanical excellence.

Size & Growth:

The species can reach up to 20m tall in its natural rainforest habitat however in residential settings height can be 3-8m tall by 3-5m wide.

Growth is steady and manageable, developing into an attractive, medium-sized specimen tree with excellent presence.

Growing Requirements:

Prefers full sun to part shade positioning in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

Benefits from consistent moisture during establishment, particularly during hot, dry periods.

Once established, relatively low-maintenance with steady, reliable growth.

The subtropical rainforest heritage means it thrives in warm climates with adequate moisture.

Perfect Uses:

> Screening

> Feature Tree

> Hedging

> Aromatic specimen tree

> Culinary garden addition

> Residential gardens

Why Choose Lemon Myrtle?

> Aromatic lemon fragrance

> Culinary and aromatic applications

> Ornamental creamy-white flowers

> Australian Native Rainforest heritage

> Bird, Bee & insect attracting

> Medium sized tree

> Low to no maintenance 

Height Approximates in Pots for this Variety:

200mm - 60-80cm tall

300mm - 1m tall

400mm - 1.2-1.4m tall

75L - 1.6-1.8m tall

100L - 1.8m+ tall