Corymbia citriodora LEMON SCENTED GUM (10 seeds)

Lemon Eucalyptus, lemon-scented gum, also known as Corymbia citriodora in Latin, is an aromatic tree reaching over 30 meters in height, belonging to the Myrtaceae family.
It is native to the tropical and temperate regions of Eastern Australia but now grows successfully around the Mediterranean basin.

The bark is smooth, ranging from white to cream in color, and can sometimes feature shades of gray. It sheds in small flakes, often revealing a lighter-colored bark underneath.

Its leaves are long and lanceolate, measuring between 10 and 20 cm in length. They are dark green on the upper side and a paler green underneath. The foliage releases a characteristic lemony scent when crushed, hence the species' common name.

Lemon Eucalyptus seeds of the  are black, flat, very hard, and measure an average of 2 to 3 millimeters per side.

- Uses:

Its leaves contain a large amount of essential oil used in aromatherapy, cosmetic products, and for making air fresheners. Its oil is renowned for its antibacterial properties. It also possesses relaxing and purifying effects.

Thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, the essential oil is also used in certain natural remedies to treat respiratory infections and muscle pain.

It is also a popular choice as a natural repellent against mosquitoes and other insects.

- Germination, sowing seeds:

• The most favorable period for sowing lemon-scented gum begins in April.
• Start by stratifying the seeds artificially for 1 month in the refrigerator or naturally outdoors in early spring.
• Prepare a tray of fine potting soil mixed with a little sand.
• Sprinkle the seeds on top without burying them.
• Water the culture gently using a spray bottle.
• Place the planting in a warm and humid spot at a temperature close to 25°C.
• Germination will begin within 4 to 8 weeks after sowing.

- Soil type / substrate:

It prefers well-drained, sandy, or even loamy soil. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for efficient cultivation.

- Light / exposure:

This tree requires full sun exposure to develop optimally. Partial shade may be acceptable for young seedlings, but direct sun exposure is preferred at maturity.

- Temperatures / hardiness:

This lemon-scented variety is frost-sensitive, but it can tolerate high temperatures. Ideally, it thrives in regions where temperatures range between 20 and 35°C. Frost can damage young shoots.

- Irrigation / watering:

During the first few years, it requires regular watering to establish its root system. Once well-rooted, it is quite drought-tolerant.

- Multiplication / reproduction:

There are two ways to propagate it: either by seed or by stem cuttings. For cuttings, take semi-hardwood shoots 15 cm long in spring or summer, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in a light, moist substrate.