The Story
Plant Bio
Backhousia citriodora, commonly known as lemon myrtle, is an evergreen tree native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Queensland. It forms a dense, low-branching canopy of glossy green leaves that release a powerful, clean lemon aroma when crushed due to high citral content.
During summer and autumn, the foliage is crowned by fluffy terminal clusters of white flowers with prominent, feathery stamens. Unlike many other rainforest species, it adapts well to open, sunny positions in home gardens provided it has reliable moisture.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
590 inches
Width
196 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Summer – Autumn
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with rich, organic-rich soil.
- Ensure the soil has excellent sub-surface drainage to prevent root rot.
- Water regularly during the establishment phase and during extended dry spells.
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk.
Pro Tip
Avoid heavy pruning into bare, leafless old wood, as the plant lacks the epicormic buds to regenerate from old wood and will remain sparse.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a dense, bushy habit.
- Ensure the soil drains freely to prevent waterlogging.
- Protect young plants from heavy frosts and cold winds.
Don't
- Do not prune aggressively into old, bare, leafless wood.
- Do not plant in permanently boggy or waterlogged soils.
- Do not allow young plants to dry out completely during establishment.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree questions
What zones can Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree grow in?
Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree bloom?
Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree typically blooms in summer through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree need full sun?
Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Backhousia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lemon Myrtle, Lemon Ironwood, Sweet Verbena Tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.