Backhousia citriodora F.Muell.

A large shrub or medium sized tree. It grows 3-15 m tall and spreads 2-6 m across. The bark is light brown and rough and scaly and flakes off. The leaves are broad sword shaped. They are hairy and reddish green when young but mature to a glossy deep green. Leaves are 5-12 cm long and 2.5-5 cm wide. The leaves have a sweet lemon smell. The flowers are in umbels 10-15 cm across. The flowers are small and white. They have 4 petals and the stamens are easy to see. The fruit has 2 cells.

A tropical and subtropical plant. Plants grow naturally in Queensland in Australia. They required acid well drained soils. A pH of 4.5-6.5 is suitable. A rainfall in the range 800-1100 m is adequate. It occurs naturally in the rainforest. It suits humid locations. Sheltered warm situations are needed and regular watering during dry periods is important. It is damaged by frost. It needs a minimum temperature above 5-7°C. It suits hardiness zones 9-10. Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens.

The leaves are used for flavouring and in herbal teas. They can also be dried and crushed and used as a spice. They are used in cakes, biscuits, sauces and desserts. They are also the source of an essential oil.

Plants can be grown from cuttings. It is important to use clonal propagation as oil quality varies considerably. Semi-ripe cuttings should be used. Plants can however be grown from seed. Seed should be near the surface and need temperatures above 13-15°C. Plants should be 3 m apart and well composted and mulched sites give better production.