Lemon Eucalyptus

Ultra lemon-scented leaves are more fragrant than lemons themselves. Narrow 3-4” gray-green leaves have a high percentage of citronella oil and are the main ingredient for plant-based insect repellent. Lemon Eucalyptus has grown to over 3’ by the end of our season. Works well as a container plant or in the garden and when pruned back keeps a bushy habit.  

20 seeds

PLANTING

Eucalyptus citriodora 

Tender perennial, zone 8-10

Germination:  7-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF

Seed Planting Depth:  Sow on the surface and lightly cover

Starting Indoors:  Start 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperatures. Sow a few seeds per individual cell or pot, thin to the strongest seedling or start in a 20-row tray, then transplant into larger cells/pots/containers. Transplant outside after the last frost, 18-24” apart.

Sowing Outdoors:  Not recommended

Growth Habit: Upright, multi-stem/ tree or shrub in warm zones

Height and Width: 36-48” x 36-48” (one season's growth)

Spacing:  18-24” apart   

Light Needs: Full sun 

Soil Needs: Lemon Eucalyptus needs fertile, moist, well-drained soil 

Uses: Medicinal, flower garden beds, filler for flower arrangements, containers

Care: Amend with compost and/or add organic fertilizer. 

Tips: Pinch seedlings back to encourage a bushy, branching habit. Planting 5-7 seedlings in a circle creates an even bigger bushy shrub-like appearance.