Maintenance Landscaping Design

Eucalyptus citriodora is a tall, evergreen tree that is endemic to Australia. The tree has a smooth, white trunk and branches that are covered in a green, waxy substance. The leaves of the tree are oblong-shaped and have a citronella-like scent. The tree produces small, white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The eucalyptus citriodora tree is an important source of nectar for birds and insects.

Also known as

• Citronella tree
  
• Lemon-scented gum
  
• Lemon eucalyptus
  
• Blue gum
  
• Ironbark

Things to Know

• Eucalyptus citriodora is a tall, evergreen tree native to Australia.
  
• It can grow up to 50 meters in height and has a diameter of 1-2 meters.
  
• The tree has a smooth, white bark and glossy, green leaves.
  
• The leaves are lance-shaped and have a strong citrus scent.
  
• The tree blooms from December to February and produces white or cream-colored flowers.
  
• The fruits are small, woody capsules that contain numerous seeds.
  
• Eucalyptus citriodora is cultivated for its wood, which is used in furniture and construction, and for its oil, which is used in aromatherapy and as a natural insecticide.
  
• The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant and is often used in landscaping.
  
• Eucalyptus citriodora is considered an invasive species in some countries due to its rapid growth and ability to displace native vegetation.
  
• The tree is also a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Related plant:
Eucalyptus Shrub

Growing Steps

1. For eucalyptus citriodora, first step is to find a suitable location. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
   
2. Prepare the planting area by removing all the weeds and loosening the soil.
   
3. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the plant’s root ball.
   
4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with the soil.
   
5. Water the plant deeply and regularly for the first few weeks.
   
6. After a few weeks, you can start to reduce the watering frequency.
   
7. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help with moisture retention.
   
8. Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer.
   
9. Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape.
   
10. Enjoy your eucalyptus citriodora plant!

Related plant:
Eucalyptus Tree

The Soil

About soil condition, eucalyptus citriodora can growth in many different types of soil but prefer well-drained, sandy loams. It is intolerant of waterlogging but can grow in heavy clay soils as long as they are not waterlogged. The species can also be found on hillsides, plateaus, and in valleys.

About light

So, like the other eucalyptus trees, eucalyptus citriodora requires full sun to grow and prosper. It's a fast-growing tree, so it'll need plenty of space to reach its full potential. If you're looking for a fragrant, beautiful addition to your landscape, eucalyptus citriodora is a great choice.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for Eucalyptus citriodora is between 23 to 27 degrees Celsius. They can tolerate lower temperatures but will not grow as well. Citriodora can also tolerate higher temperatures up to around 35 degrees Celsius but will not produce as much oil above 27 degrees Celsius.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40-60%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will dry out and the plant will become less fragrant. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will yellow and the plant will become more susceptible to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

Mentioning fertilizer, this family of plant requires little to no fertilizer and actually prefer to be grown in lean soils. For best performance, grow in full sun and deep, rich, well-drained soils. Take care not to over-water as they do not tolerate soggy soils. With that in mind, eucalyptus citriodora have deep taproots and are very drought tolerant.

Plant Pruning

Pruning eucalyptus citriodora is a simple process that can be done with little fuss. The best time to prune your eucalyptus citriodora is in early spring, before new growth begins. To prune, simply remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are rubbing against each other. You can also trim back any branches that are growing too close to the house or other structures. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damage to the branches.

Plant Propagation

Propagation for eucalyptus citriodora is most commonly done through seed. The best time to sow the seed is in late winter or early spring. The seed should be sown on the surface of a well-drained seed mix and lightly covered with peat or vermiculite. Once sown, keep the seed moist but not wet and place in a warm, bright location. Seedlings should emerge within 4-6 weeks. Once they have reached a few inches in height, they can be transplanted into individual pots.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate quickly, often doubling their size each year. They are evergreen trees that may grow to a height of around 30 m (98 ft) or more. The leaves are lanceolate, 5–13 cm (2.0–5.1 in) long and 1.5–3 cm (0.59–1.2 in) broad, with a lemon-scented oil.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are that it can be affected by aphids, mites, and scale. These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant. In extreme cases, the plant may die. To control these pests, it is important to regularly check the plant for signs of infestation and to treat the plant with an insecticide if necessary.

List to Know

• Remember to water your eucalyptus citriodora regularly, especially during hot weather.
  
• Place your plant in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight.
  
• Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every few months.
  
• Prune your eucalyptus citriodora to shape it as desired.
  
• To propagate, take stem cuttings in spring or summer.
  
• Pests and diseases are not typically a problem, but watch out for scale insects and fungal diseases.
  
• Eucalyptus citriodora is a fast-growing plant, so you will need to repot it every few years.
  
• When you repot, use a well-draining potting mix.
  
• If you live in a cold climate, you will need to bring your plant indoors for the winter.
  
• Enjoy the fresh, citrusy

Substitution

• Eucalyptus cloeziana
  
• Eucalyptus cladocalyx
  
• Eucalyptus cephalocarpa
  
• Eucalyptus collaborating
  
• Eucalyptus cretata
  
• Eucalyptus cordata
  
• Eucalyptus crenulata
  
• Eucalyptus cretata
  
• Eucalyptus crocea
  
• Eucalyptus cubit
  

Source:
Eucalyptus citriodora | Tropical Restoration Library
Eucalyptus citriodora | Landscape Plant Propagation Information
Corymbia citriodora (syn. Eucalyptus citriodora), lemon-scented …