Lemon-scented Gum
corymbia citriodora
Also known as: ["Corymbia citriodora","Lemon Gum","Lemon Eucalyptus"]
Overview
A tall evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its lemon-scented leaves and smooth, white or grey bark.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Corymbia |
| Botanical Name: | Corymbia citriodora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix with organic matter and sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates brief dips to 25°F (-4°C) but prefers warm, frost-free conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; water before applying fertilizer; choose a balanced NPK formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and humidity is moderate.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment in a new pot takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage lateral growth, and removal of crossing/rubbing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove 1/3 of old growth if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Essential for container-grown plants to prevent root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely and avoid wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch for ground plants; avoid wet soil in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or premature leaf drop; reduced vigor and flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use correct dilution; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer, diluted to half-strength for container plants. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorymbia citriodora is not considered toxic to cats. The essential oils may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested, but no severe toxic effects are documented.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCorymbia citriodora is not considered toxic to dogs. While ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the strong essential oils, it does not pose a significant health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThe essential oils in Corymbia citriodora can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, but it is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause systemic poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Corymbia citriodora safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How tall does Corymbia citriodora grow?
A: It can grow up to 50 meters tall in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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