This large shrub to small tree has a short trunk with spreading branches that form a dense rounded crown. It has lemon scented glossy green lanced-shaped leaves and the creamy-white fragrant bell-shaped flowers appear in a cluster in spring.

Hardiness zones 9 to 10

Backhousia citriodora is naturally found in Australia growing on the Queensland east coast from Mackay to Brisbane, appearing in coastal rainforests. 

It prefers a medium to heavy well drained soil in a semi-shade to sunny open position when mature and is moderately frost tolerant but drought tender.

The Lemon Scented Myrtle is grown for its fragrant foliage and its flowers. It is planted in parks and gardens as a lawn specimen for shade or used in borders for screening. It can be pruned to form a hedge and is ideal for a scented or rainforest garden. It is suitable for coastal regions and establishes in 2 to 3 years and is long lived. ID 765

Backhousia (bak-HOW-zee-uh) citriodora (sit-ree-oh-DOR-uh)

“Backhousia” commemorates James Backhouse, botanist and missionary during Australia’s colonial settlement; “citriodora”, from Latin citri, “lemon”, + odorus, “scent” - referring to the lemon-scented leaves.

Myrtaceae (mir-TAY-see-ee)
Myrtle, Eucalyptus, Clove and Guava Family