The lemon scented gum is one of my favourite fragrances, that pungent citronella smell released after the rain or at dusk on a summer evening makes me feel all sentimental about our incredible flora.
Unfortunately Eucalyptus or Corymbia citriodora doesn’t mix so well with the urban landscape, firstly they get tall, very tall and secondly as with most smooth barked Eucalypts like to drop their branches in a strong wind.
However now there are multiple dwarf grafted forms available, which only reach 6-8 metres in height! Hoorah! They come with similar names and all similar in growth, appearance and smell. Wether you find them in the nursery with the tag Corymbia citriodora ‘Scentuous’/’Baby Citro’/’Lemon Essence’, they will achieve the same outcome. I have used the name ‘Scentuous’ throughout this post, because that was the first grafted species available at nurseries.
In the image above you can see one which was planted about 3 years ago and is around 6 meters already.
I have camped in lemon scented gum forests and been intoxicated by the smell and not a single mosquito was to be found even though it was the height of Summer.
Eucalyptus ‘Scentuous’ is tall and narrow and very weeping in habit, its will reach around 3 to 4 metres wide, and develops the same striking smooth white trunk the same as the full size tree.
In the image above it is under planted with Lomandra’s, Westringia and Eremophilla ‘Pink Pantha’.
Eucalyptus ‘Scentuous’ will grow in full sun to part shade and prefers a well drained soil. Due to its smaller size it is very versatile, and great for gardens of all sizes and perfect for streetscapes, it can also be pruned to stay smaller if needed. The bark and flowers add visual interest all year round.
The sun dancing through the foliage is a pleasant outlook to while away some hours.
The flowers are prolific in Summer and nectar rich, attracting bees and birds alike, they also have a very strong honey scent.
Providing some shade in this garden it is under planted with Themeda ‘Mingo’ with a path to the street.
Providing screening from the street, this plant also tolerates drought and light frost once established.
This great dwarf Eucalyptus is a worthwhile addition to any garden large or small, and well worth giving pride of place in a native garden, make sure you plant it close so you can regularly enjoy its lemony scented goodness!
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