Fine herbs

Lemon eucalyptus

Eucalyptus citron is an aromatic eucalyptus with highly fragrant foliage reminiscent of citronella, popular as a decorative potted plant, on patios, and for its ornamental foliage.

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Hardiness Not hardy
Difficulty level Moderate

Discover the plant

Family Myrtaceae

Lemon eucalyptus is an aromatic plant much appreciated for its elongated, green to gray-green foliage, which releases a fresh, lemon-scented, and slightly mentholated aroma when crushed. Its vibrant and distinctive scent makes it an ideal plant for patio pots, herb gardens, deck containers, and aromatic arrangements. In addition to its fragrant appeal, its decorative foliage adds an exotic, light, and elegant touch to outdoor spaces during the warm season.

Easy to grow, lemon eucalyptus prefers a full sun, warm, and well-ventilated location, in light, fertile, and very well-drained soil. It grows particularly well in pots, which allows for better control of watering and enables it to be moved indoors when temperatures drop. Regular watering is recommended during growth, while allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid excessive moisture. As it is not hardy in our climate, it is generally grown as an annual or brought indoors before cold weather to a very bright spot.

Both decorative, fragrant, and very useful in sensory gardens, lemon eucalyptus is perfect for gardeners looking for an original and easy-to-integrate aromatic plant in containers. Its foliage can be used in bouquets, fresh or dried arrangements, and natural decorative creations. It's an excellent plant to add a lemony note, elegant texture, and a fresh ambiance to patios, balconies, and herb gardens.

Lemon eucalyptus

Planting guide

From plantingto establishment.

Propagation Sowing or cuttings

Soil and care

The rightconditions.

Soil pH Slightly acidic to neutral
Fertilization Light fertilization in spring; avoid excessive fertilizer
Care level Moderate
Seasonal care
Bring indoors away from frost in cold climates; prune lightly to maintain a compact shape; avoid overwatering

Container growing

A controlledenvironment.

Excellent container plant for a deep, well-drained pot
Lemon eucalyptus

Bloom and dimensions

The completeprofile.

Bloom periodSporadic in hot climates
Flower colorCreamy white
Foliage colorGreen
Foliage typePersistent
Maximum height2 to 4 m (6 to 13 ft)
Maximum width1 to 2 m (3 to 6 ft)
Growth rateRapid growth
Hardiness zoneNot hardy
Minimum temperature5°C
Lemon eucalyptus

Garden associations

What to plantwith it.

Container, terrace, patio, cut foliage, Mediterranean garden, decorative aromatic plant

Its strengths, naturally.

Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer