How to Grow and Care for Lemon Myrtle

The Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is a versatile and treasured native plant. Not only does it boast an attractive aesthetic, but its leaves are a well-kept culinary secret, lending their lemon-lime zest to dishes, teas, and even essential oils.

If you're curious about incorporating the plant into your own garden, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive Lemon Myrtle grow and care guide is tailored to suit every level of garden-savvy. Ready? Let's deep dive.

Lemon Myrtle at a Glance

Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is a native Australian plant with a strong lemon fragrance and flavour. It is primarily found in the subtropical rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales. The plant is highly valued for its culinary, medicinal, and aromatic properties. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried and are commonly used in marinades, sauces, dressings, desserts, and beverages. It also has a potent and refreshing lemon aroma, making it a popular ingredient in teas and herbal infusions.

Besides this, Lemon Myrtle has been traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for its medicinal properties. The leaves contain high levels of essential oils, including citral, which is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The essential oil derived from Lemon Myrtle leaves is used in perfumes, soaps, candles, and other personal care products.

As a valuable plant species in Australia, efforts are made to ensure its conservation and sustainable harvesting. Commercial cultivation of Lemon Myrtle has been established to meet the growing demand while protecting wild populations and their ecosystems.

Why Grow Lemon Myrtle?

Lemon Myrtle is an exceptional choice for your garden, offering a myriad of compelling reasons to include it. Let's explore the features that make Lemon Myrtle truly remarkable:

• A Feast for the Senses: First and foremost, the Lemon Myrtle is a feast for the senses. The moment you brush against its foliage, the air comes alive with a vibrant lemony fragrance. It's like having your own natural diffuser in the garden, offering you a slice of citrus sunshine no matter the weather.
• A Green Charm for Your Garden: Then there's the matter of aesthetics. Lemon Myrtle is undeniably charming with its glossy green leaves and clusters of fluffy white flowers that bloom in summer. Whether nestled in the garden or potted on your balcony, this plant is a visual delight that adds a touch of green charm to any setting.
• A Culinary Delight: But Lemon Myrtle isn't all just about looks and fragrances. It's also a functional plant with a multitude of uses in the kitchen and beyond. The leaves, known for their strong lemon-lime flavour, make a unique addition to a variety of dishes, from your morning tea to savoury meals.
• A Potent Essential Oil: The essential oil derived from Lemon Myrtle is also quite the powerhouse. Used in aromatherapy, it's reputed to boost mood, improve sleep, and even alleviate symptoms of common ailments like colds and headaches.
• A Water-Wise Choice for Green Living: Moreover, for the eco-conscious, cultivating Lemon Myrtle is a step towards greener living. It's a hardy, drought-tolerant plant, making it a water-wise choice for your garden. Plus, it's a native Australian plant, which means it's well-adapted to local conditions and plays a role in supporting biodiversity.

Growing Lemon Myrtle

For our zesty friend, the Lemon Myrtle, you have two options: you can grow it from seeds, or you can grow it from cuttings. Both methods have their unique joys and challenges, and whichever path you choose to take, we're here to guide you through each step of the journey.

Growing Lemon Myrtle From Seeds

Growing Lemon Myrtle from seeds is a labour of love. It may take a bit longer to see the fruits of your labour, but the joy of seeing that first sprout break through the soil is an unmatched experience.

Step 1: Seed Selection and Preparation

Choose high-quality seeds from a reputable nursery to ensure the best results. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to help soften the hard outer shell and encourage germination.

Step 2: Potting Mix and Sowing

Use a well-drained potting mix rich in organic matter. Plant the soaked seeds 1 cm deep into the potting mix and water lightly. Remember, it's essential not to let the soil dry out completely.

Step 3: Provide Ideal Growing Conditions

Lemon Myrtle seeds love a warm, humid environment. Place your pot in a spot that gets filtered sunlight and maintain a consistent temperature of around 25°C.

Step 4: Patience and Care

It's a waiting game now. Germination can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, so patience is key. During this time, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Step 5: Transplanting

Once your seedlings have grown a couple of sturdy leaves, they're ready to move to their own pots. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fill it with a quality potting mix.

Step 6: Maturation

Your job now is to help the plant thrive. Water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, fertilise during the growing season, and prune to encourage bushier growth. With proper care, your Lemon Myrtle can mature into a healthy, full-sized plant in about 3 years.

Growing Lemon Myrtle From Cuttings

For those who can't wait for seeds to sprout, growing Lemon Myrtle from cuttings is a quicker way to a mature plant.

Step 1: Choose Your Cutting

Select a healthy, semi-hardwood branch from a mature Lemon Myrtle. The cutting should be about 10-15cm long with at least two leaf nodes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cutting

Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Then, dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. This encourages the cutting to develop roots.

Step 3: Potting and Care

Plant your cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining mix of coarse sand and peat moss. Water thoroughly, and place the pot in a warm, shaded location.

Step 4: Root Development

This is the stage where patience is key. It can take several weeks for the roots to develop. During this time, keep the potting mix moist and protect the cutting from extreme weather conditions.

Step 5: Transplanting

Once the roots are well-established, you can transplant the cutting into a larger pot or directly into the ground. Use well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, and ensure the plant gets enough sunlight.

Step 6: Maturation

From here, care for the young plant as you would a mature Lemon Myrtle. With the right care, your cutting can mature into a healthy, full-sized plant in about 1-2 years.

Seeds vs. Cuttings: Which Method is Better?

Deciding on the best way to grow Lemon Myrtle can be a bit of a head-scratcher. Like most things in life, both methods come with their own set of pros and cons. So, let's sow the seeds of understanding and cut through the confusion with a bit of side-by-side comparison.

Seeds

Grow Lemon Myrtle from seeds if you have the time and patience to wait for seed germination and growth, enjoy observing the complete life cycle of a plant or have difficulty sourcing healthy cuttings.

Pros:

• It's a natural method, and it can be more rewarding to watch the entire life cycle of the plant unfold.
• It's often easier to find Lemon Myrtle seeds than cuttings.
• Seeds can be stored for longer periods until you're ready to plant.

Cons:

• It requires more time and patience as seeds take longer to germinate and grow.
• The germination rate might be lower than the success rate of propagating from cuttings.
• Seed-grown plants may exhibit variability in traits if the seeds are not from a reliable source.

Cuttings

Grow Lemon Myrtle from cuttings if you want to speed up the growing process, have access to a mature Lemon Myrtle from which you can take cuttings, or want a plant that exactly replicates the characteristics of the parent plant.

Pros:

• It's a faster way to get a mature plant.
• Cuttings have a high success rate and often root easily.
• The plant is a genetic clone of the parent plant, so you know exactly what you're getting in terms of growth habits and other traits.

Cons:

• Cuttings may not be as readily available as seeds.
• The process requires a little more gardening skill, such as knowing when and how to take a cutting.
• The plant may take a while to get established and start growing vigorously.

The choice comes down to your gardening style, the resources available to you, and the joy you derive from the process of growing. Either way, you'll end up with a beautiful, fragrant Lemon Myrtle to enhance your garden.

Caring for Your Lemon Myrtle

From the lush rainforests of coastal Queensland to the sun-drenched gardens of Perth, Lemon Myrtle has proven to be a hardy, versatile plant. However, while it might be a tough cookie, it certainly appreciates a bit of tender, loving care. So, how can you ensure your Lemon Myrtle thrives in its new home?

Let's take a look.

Sunlight

Whether you're in the tropical north or the temperate south, Lemon Myrtle enjoys a sunny spot. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade. However, if you're in a particularly scorching area like Alice Springs, your plant will appreciate some afternoon shade to protect it from the harshest rays.

Soil

Lemon Myrtle prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. While it's tolerant of most soil types, it's not overly keen on heavy clay. If your garden's soil is more clay-like, say in Adelaide, consider improving its structure with some organic compost or growing your Lemon Myrtle in a raised bed or pot. Our comprehensive guide can help you adapt to challenging soil conditions with ease.

Water

While Lemon Myrtle is drought-tolerant once established, it appreciates a regular watering schedule, particularly during the first few years and in dry periods. If you're in a drier area, such as Perth, you might need to water more frequently. However, be careful not to overwater, as this plant doesn't enjoy wet feet.

Feeding

In its natural habitat in the rainforests of Queensland, Lemon Myrtle enjoys nutrient-rich soil. To replicate this in your garden, apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring and again in autumn, regardless of whether you're in Melbourne, Hobart, or Sydney.

Pruning

Lemon Myrtle is a fast grower and can easily reach up to 8m in a garden setting. If you want to keep it to a manageable size or shape, don't be afraid to get the pruning shears out. The best time to prune is after flowering, typically late summer or early autumn. Be aware, though, a hard prune will result in fewer flowers in the following season.

Pests and Diseases

Generally, Lemon Myrtle is quite resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes fall prey to scale insects, leaf curls, or sooty mould. If you notice any signs of these pests, treat the plant with an eco-friendly insecticidal soap or oil.

For a more detailed resource on the topic, check out our comprehensive lemon tree care guide.

Lemon Myrtle Use & Landscaping Ideas

The Lemon Myrtle is not only a utilitarian plant but an incredibly versatile element in the world of landscape design. Whether you're looking to add a statement tree, create a vibrant hedge, or even set up a potted display, Lemon Myrtle can rise to the occasion.

Here are some creative landscaping ideas to help you integrate this Australian native into your outdoor space.

1. Feature Tree: Lemon Myrtle's distinctive aesthetics and aromatic leaves make it a prime choice for a feature tree. Its height, which can reach up to 8m in a garden setting, combined with its lush canopy, can offer an impressive spectacle and a delightful shade spot. You might place the tree where it can be admired from your window or near a seating area in the garden where you can enjoy its fresh, lemony aroma.
2. Aromatic Hedge: For those with a larger garden, a Lemon Myrtle hedge could be the way to go. A row of these evergreens can provide not just privacy but also a sensory delight. Every brush against the hedge will release a burst of that fresh, lemony fragrance. The dense foliage and regular shape of the plant make it perfect for creating a neat, formal hedge or privacy screen.
3. Container Planting: Don't despair if you have a smaller garden or even just a balcony. Lemon Myrtle is quite happy to grow in a container, where its size can be easily managed through regular pruning. A pot of Lemon Myrtle can lend a touch of greenery and a whiff of citrus to your patio, balcony, or courtyard. Consider placing several pots in a row for a mini hedge effect or using a single pot as a striking feature.
4. Garden Borders: Lemon Myrtle can also be utilised as an attractive border plant, guiding your guests along a pathway or marking the boundaries of a garden bed. With their dense growth, they can act as a verdant frame for your garden's masterpiece, adding structure and a pop of evergreen colour all year round.
5. Mixed Shrubbery: Lemon Myrtle can be a fantastic addition to mixed shrubbery or a perennial border. Its glossy, green leaves can provide an excellent backdrop for colourful flowering plants. When paired with other Australian natives, it can contribute to a vibrant, biodiversity-supporting garden.
6. Wildlife Attractor: Another wonderful landscaping idea is to use Lemon Myrtle as a wildlife attractor. Its fluffy, white flowers are a magnet for a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, adding an extra dimension of life and movement to your garden.
7. Aromatic Garden: Consider using Lemon Myrtle as part of an aromatic garden. Combined with other scented plants like lavender, rosemary, and mint, you can create a sensory delight for both you and your visitors. Arrange the plants along a path or near a seating area where their fragrances can be best enjoyed.
8. Poolside Planting: Finally, if you're lucky enough to have a pool, Lemon Myrtle could be the perfect poolside plant. It's tolerant of both heat and light, and its glossy leaves can provide a lush, tropical vibe. Just ensure the soil has excellent drainage to keep your Lemon Myrtle happy.

Whichever way you choose to incorporate it, whether as a feature tree, part of a hedge, or a container plant, its lively citrus scent and attractive aesthetics will surely add a unique charm to your garden.

Companion Plants for Your Lemon Myrtle

When it comes to companion planting, choosing the right plants to pair with your Lemon Myrtle can create an aesthetically pleasing and environmentally harmonious garden.

These plants should ideally share similar growing conditions – full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and tolerance to moderate drought. With these factors in mind, here are some companion plants that will beautifully complement your Lemon Myrtle.

1. Grevillea: These Australian natives share similar sunlight and soil requirements as the Lemon Myrtle. Their needle-like foliage and vibrant, uniquely-shaped flowers provide an appealing contrast to the Lemon Myrtle’s glossy leaves and delicate white blossoms. Plus, Grevillea species are excellent for attracting birds and bees, enhancing your garden’s biodiversity.
2. Lavender: Lavender's silvery foliage and purple blooms can beautifully offset the bright green leaves of the Lemon Myrtle. Like Lemon Myrtle, lavender also releases a pleasant scent when brushed against it, creating a sensory garden experience. Ensure both plants have plenty of sun and well-drained soil for the best results.
3. Kangaroo Paw: The tall, slender stalks and vibrant red, yellow, or green flowers of the Kangaroo Paw can provide a visually striking contrast to the Lemon Myrtle's dense foliage. Both plants are natives of Australia, and Kangaroo Paw can tolerate the same full sun to partial shade conditions as Lemon Myrtle.
4. Eucalyptus: These Australian icons can provide a taller backdrop to your Lemon Myrtle. Their blue-green leaves and unique bark offer a beautiful visual counterpoint, while the aroma from the Eucalyptus leaves complements the Lemon Myrtle's citrus scent. Both these trees are drought-tolerant and love full sunlight.
5. Bottlebrush (Callistemon): Another Australian native, the Bottlebrush, with its striking, brush-like flowers, makes an excellent companion to Lemon Myrtle. Its preference for sunny conditions and well-drained soil aligns with the Lemon Myrtle's needs. The Bottlebrush's bold red flowers also attract wildlife, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
6. Australian Mint Bush (Prostanthera): The Australian Mint Bush is a great companion for Lemon Myrtle as it thrives in the same growing conditions. It has aromatic leaves like the Lemon Myrtle but with a minty fragrance, providing a wonderful scent contrast in the garden. It also produces purple or white flowers that complement the Lemon Myrtle's white blooms.
7. Grasses and Sedges: Native grasses such as Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra) or sedges like Carex can provide a soft, contrasting understorey to your Lemon Myrtle. These plants typically do well in the same conditions as Lemon Myrtle and can add a different texture and movement to your garden.
8. Tea Tree (Leptospermum): The Tea Tree is another excellent companion for Lemon Myrtle. With similar sunlight and soil requirements, they can thrive together in the same garden. The Tea Tree's white or pink flowers and twisted branches can provide a lovely contrast to the Lemon Myrtle's uniform shape and white blossoms.
9. Hardenbergia: This Australian native vine, also known as Purple Coral Pea, can create an eye-catching display when paired with Lemon Myrtle. The Hardenbergia's trailing growth habit and vibrant purple flowers can beautifully complement the upright stature and white blossoms of the Lemon Myrtle.

Companion plants that share similar requirements and offer contrasting colours, textures, or shapes can help you create a visually stunning and environmentally friendly garden with Lemon Myrtle as the centrepiece.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the lemon Mrtyle plant.

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Embracing the Citrus Symphony

Growing and caring for Lemon Myrtle isn't just about nurturing a plant - it's about fostering a connection with nature and indulging in the sweet symphony of citrus that it so generously offers. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a budding horticulturist, there's a unique joy that comes from witnessing this Aussie gem flourish under your care.

As they say, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." So why wait? Let the zesty aroma of Lemon Myrtle infuse your garden and your life with a burst of Aussie sunshine. Here's to growth, resilience, and a little touch of green magic.