Organic lemon eucalyptus ( Corymbia citriodora ) – offered by Gaia, an aromatic shrub with a thousand virtues
Lemon eucalyptus is a fragrant and vigorous shrub , appreciated for its aromatic leaves with a refreshing lemon scent . Very versatile, it can be grown as a small tree or shrub and can be used as an essential oil, infusion or natural insect repellent . Its rapid growth and ease of maintenance make it an ideal choice for gardeners looking for a useful and ornamental plant.
Thanks to its natural repellent properties , it is often planted near terraces and gardens to keep mosquitoes away. Its evergreen foliage and soothing lemony scent add a touch of freshness and exoticism to green spaces.
Did you know?
Lemon eucalyptus is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties . Its essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy for its relaxing and purifying effects , as well as to relieve respiratory discomfort.
Spread : Shrubby shape or small tree
Plant height : 1.50 to 3 m (in temperate climate)
Quantity per pack : ± 50 seeds
Companion plants : Marigold, lavender, basil, nasturtium, thyme
Enemy plants : Walnut, fennel
Cultivation method
Before sowing, a cold stratification of 4 to 6 weeks is necessary to break seed dormancy and promote good germination. Then sow indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost , lightly covering the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite .
Watering should be light and regular , favoring humidification from below or misting to avoid moving the seeds. When the first true leaves appear , transplant the young plants into larger pots before gradually hardening them off and installing them in the ground after the last frost.
Lemon eucalyptus likes warm, well-drained soil , ideally covered with black plastic mulch or landscape fabric to retain heat. Full sun exposure and minimal watering are sufficient to ensure good growth.
Harvesting and conservation
The leaves can be harvested as soon as they become tough and reach maturity. To preserve their aromatic quality , it is recommended to harvest in mid- to late afternoon , once the morning dew has evaporated.
Handle the leaves with care, as they bruise easily and may turn black if stored improperly. To prolong their shelf life, use glycerin as a preservative or store fresh leaves in a plastic bag for up to 3 to 4 days .
With its fragrant evergreen foliage , its multiple culinary and therapeutic uses , and its ability to repel insects , lemon eucalyptus is an essential plant for a garden that is both practical and elegant !
How to store lemon eucalyptus in Canada?
🌱 Pot culture (ideal solution)
- Choose a large pot : Eucalyptus has a strong root system. Use a deep pot with good drainage to allow it to thrive.
- Well-drained substrate : A mixture of light potting soil, sand and perlite is recommended to avoid excess moisture.
- Full sun exposure : Place it in a very bright location (ideally facing south) so that it benefits from at least 6 hours of sun per day.
- Moderate watering : Eucalyptus prefers slightly dry soil. Water once the soil is dry on the surface , avoiding stagnant water.
❄️ Wintering indoors
- Before the first frosts ( mid-October to November depending on the region), bring the pot inside .
- Place the plant in a bright, cool place (10-15°C) , such as a veranda, an insulated garage or near a sunny window.
- Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
🌳 Growing in open ground (risky option, but possible in zone 8 and above)
- If you are in a milder area (eg southern BC) it can survive in the ground with winter protection .
- Thick mulch (straw, dead leaves, wood chips) at the base to insulate the roots.
- Winter veil on young plants to protect them from extreme cold.
- Some gardeners try the technique of a cold greenhouse or a makeshift shelter against wind and frost.
My eucalyptus is dead… Can I save it?
- Check the base of the trunk : Lightly scratch the bark with a fingernail or a knife. If there is green under the bark , the plant is still alive and can start again in the spring.
- Prune Dead Wood : If only the top branches are dead, cut them back to stimulate new growth from the base.
- Wait for spring : Sometimes eucalyptus trees appear to die but then start growing again from the stump. Wait until May-June before pulling it out for good.
