Lemon-Scented Gum
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(Corymbia citriodora)
Lemon-Scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora)
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Daniel Arrhakis
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Daniel Arrhakis
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Daniel Arrhakis | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Daniel Arrhakis - Visual Arts | Publisher: Flickr
Summary
Corymbia citriodora, commonly known as Lemon-Scented Gum, is an evergreen tree native to the open woodlands and forest margins of Eastern Australia. It can reach a height of 25–40 meters (82–131 feet), occasionally growing up to 50 meters (160 feet), and is noted for its smooth, pale bark that sheds in patches to reveal a white to pink surface. The adult leaves are narrow, lance-shaped to curved, and emit a strong lemon scent when crushed. Flower buds are typically arranged in groups of three, leading to clusters of white flowers. The fruit is urn-shaped or barrel-shaped. A distinctive feature of this species is the formation of a lignotuber, which allows the tree to resprout after damage.
Lemon-Scented Gum is valued for its aromatic foliage and attractive bark, making it a popular choice for use in landscaping and as a street tree in urban environments. It is also used for its essential oil, which has applications in aromatherapy and as a natural insect repellent. In cultivation, it requires full sun, well-drained soil, and is tolerant of drought once established. It is important to consult local guidelines before planting. Additionally, the tree’s large size and heavy limbs can pose a risk in urban settings if not properly managed.CC BY-SA 4.0
Lemon-Scented Gum is valued for its aromatic foliage and attractive bark, making it a popular choice for use in landscaping and as a street tree in urban environments. It is also used for its essential oil, which has applications in aromatherapy and as a natural insect repellent. In cultivation, it requires full sun, well-drained soil, and is tolerant of drought once established. It is important to consult local guidelines before planting. Additionally, the tree’s large size and heavy limbs can pose a risk in urban settings if not properly managed.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree
- Height: 80-100 feet
- Width: 20-50 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Open woodlands and forest margins
Other Names
Common Names: Blue Spotted Gum, Citron-Scented Gum, Lemon Scented Gum, Citroneukalyptus, Lemon-Scented Gum
Scientific Names: Eucalyptus citriodora, Corymbia citriodora, Corymbia citriodora subsp. variegata, Eucalyptus maculata var. citriodora, Corymbia variegata, Eucalyptus melissiodora, Eucalyptus variegata
GBIF Accepted Name: Corymbia citriodora (Hook.) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson